
Qass 



-Xlst 



Book >Q'4 



ADVICE 



^' / 






GUIDE TO EMIGRANTS 



OaSyG TO THE 



7 1' 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



By P;0' KELLY, Esq. 



IUiN3LAT0R AKIr TUBLISHER OF ABBE MAC-GEOGHEGAK'S HISTORY 
OF lUELAKD. 



DUBLIN: 

PRINTED BY WILLIAM FOLDS, 

59, GREAT STRAND-STREET. 

1834. 



ll^H i 



30 



PREFACE. 



The author of this treatise on America, begs the 
liberty of informing his countrymen, that he resided in 
Kentucky, and subsequently in Baltimore, during six 
years, previously to his going to France with his family 
for the exclusive object of their education. The death 
of a brother was the sole cause of his having left the 
United States, where he spent the above period, at the 
head of a flourishing academy, as will appear in the 
course of this work, which, it is hoped, may produce 
some good to emigrants who may be eager, as he himself 
had been, to make that land of freedom their future 
residence for life. Every thing that was possible to be 
gleaned, through the frequent opportunities which oc- 
curred to him, both from personal observations and an 
intercourse with citizens of that country, had been care- 
fully committed to writing, and arranged for publication, 
before the history of Ireland, alluded to, had been com- 
menced. Having now completed this arduous under- 
taking, and seeing that the United States of America 
are but slenderly noticed by some who have endeavoured 
to impress upon the minds of emigrants, a predilection 
for the Canadas, the author, ^^'ith a zealous wish to direct 
for the better, Irishmen and others intent on emigration, 
recommends to them, in making choice for improving 
their condition in life, to weigh,* with attention, the 
several circumstances which are pointed out. 



ir PREFACE. 

In alluding to the Canadas, as being unfit for our coun- 
trymen who risk their lives and all they possess, in quest 
of comfort and indepeu dance, our object is, to prove, that 
the United States are superior to any other part of the 
western hemisphere ; and therefore it should be admitted, 
that the emigrant ought to make a choice in settling, 
where his advantages and prospects would be obviously 
the best. A few simple questions will make the thing 
more clear, in contrasting the Canadas with the United 
States. In what part of America is the emigrant likely 
to meet the best and most inviting climate ? I answer, 
in the United States. In what place will be have the 
opportunity of meeting speedy employment, good wages, 
and prospects of becoming independent in a few years ? 
I answer, hkewise, in the United States. 

Wliere half the year is winter, as in Canada, the cli- 
mate must be severe : where the settlers are compara- 
tively few, and such as have commenced their career 
with limited means, the want of labourers or mechanics 
amongst them, must be moderate indeed. Being firmly 
convinced, therefore, of the superior advantages which 
may be reasonably expected to be met with in the United 
States, by a well-conducted and industrious Irishman, the 
author of this treatise confidently advises his countrymen 
to emigrate to the United States of America, in prefer- 
ence to any other part of the world. 



Dublin, 20, Grenville-street, Mountjoy-square, 
February 1, 1834. 



TESTIMONIALS 

OF MR. O'KELLY'S HAVING LIVED IN THE 
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



Be it known to all men, that Mr. Patrick O' Kelly, 
who has lived for several years in Louisville, at the head 
of a flourishing academy, has been generally esteemed by 
his employers, and his numerous acquaintances, both as a 
literary character and an excellent citizen. Strong in 
his faith, he and his interesting lady have edified their 
fellow Catholics, by faithfully attending divine service, 
and receiving regularly the sacraments of the church. 

Given under my Hand and Seal, on the 
IGthof June, 1823. 

(Signed) >J< BENEDICT JOSEPH, 

Bishop of Bardstown, State of Kentucky, United States. 



I do certify the same of Mr. Patrick O'Kellv, during 
his residence in Baltimore. 

(Signed) >5< AMB. Arch. Bait. 

Baltimore, 14th July, 1823. 

® The seal O3 ® The Seal '% 

© of <J © « 

€ the IMost Rev. 3 © x> « * 

® Archbishop ® © Rt.Rev. Bishop ^ 

© ofitoltimore q ^ Flaget. © 



I certify that the annexed documents arc the auto- 
graphs of the Bishop of Bairdstown, and of the late 
Archbishop of Baltimore. 

(Signed) >J< JOHN, Bishop of Charleston. 

Kilkenny, July 6, 1833. 



TESTIMONIALS. 



Baltimore, 16th July, 182a 

Mr. P. O'Kelly, 

Dear Sir, — Your being on your departure 
for Europe, where consideration of feeling and interest 
takes you, I wish to express my regret at the loss our 
community sustains in being deprived of your talents, 
your excellent moral character, and your indefatigable 
industry, which I have been witness to for a long time. 

I trust the change may prove beneficial and agreeable. 
I regret my want of acquaintance with any individual in 
Dublin, to express my sentiments of you, and to aid in 
making known your many excellent qualities. Wishing 
you and family a pleasant voyage, 
I am, dear Sir, 

Your Friend and Servant, 
(Signed,) LUKE TIERNAN. 



I am well acquainted with the hand-writing of the 
Ri<rht Rev. Benedict Joseph Flaget, Bishop of Bardstown, 
Kentucky, and can certify that the testimonials so com- 
plimentary and creditable to Mr. P. O' Kelly, and beai'ing 
his lordship's signature and seal, are in his hand- writing; 
and I can further add, that I have heard from other re- 
spectable quarters, very flattering reports of Mr. O'Kelly's 
capacity and conduct. 

(Signed,) RICHARD KENRICK, P.P. 
St. Nicholas Without. 

Dublin, August 2nd, 1825, 
Francis-street. 



ADVICE TO EMIGRANTS 



Every man who has it in contemplation, or 
advises his friend to emigrate to America, ought 
to endeavour to acquire some knowledge of 
the geography of that country, whereby he may 
be enabled to judge, with tolerable accuracy, 
what place or city might best suit him for the 
views and purposes of life he intends to pursue 
after his arrival. 

It is allowed, that many who have gone to 
foreign countries full of hopes, and confident 
of succeeding, have been often disappointed in 
the plans which they had previously flattered 
themselves, would do well. Difiiculties, and 
heavy expenses, have frequently arisen to the 
emigrant, from selecting a vessel intended for 
American ports, very distant perhaps from 
those States where speedy employment might 
have been met with, and to which their limited 
means would not have enabled them to proceed 
after landing. 

a3 



The United States of America vary so much 
in their extent and situation, that many ex- 
aggerated accounts have been given of them by 
travellers, who, from a mere ^aew of the (Coun- 
try through whicb they had passed, or the re- 
ports of others, have propagated opinions, that 
in the new States, the opportunities of becom- 
ing wealthy and independent in a short time, 
could be met with by those possessing even a 
moderate capital. The general effect produced, 
is, that the unwary and inexperienced stranger 
believes all that he hears, often from self-inter- 
ested persons, many of whom were perhaps his 
own countrymen, who might have purchased 
in distant parts of the union, and are solicitous, 
on that account, to influence the emigrant to 
proceed thither and locate himself in a new 
district or town-ship, where property (they will 
tell him) must become more productive than in 
the old States. That advice might be given 
with justice to such as have means sufficient to 
purchase a section* or more of land, or tract of a 
town-ship eligibly situated ; but the expenditure 
necessary for cultivation, or for the purposes of 
building, shoidd engross also the attention of 
the purchaser, who, if having in addition for 
these things what would meet the incidental ex- 
penses of his farm for some two or three years, 
will have no cause, (it may be presumed,) to 

* A section of land contains 640 acres Endish measure. 



regret his having made a distant part of the 
union his choice to reside in. 

The Americans themselves afford many ex- 
amples of that kind in passing with their fa- 
milies from one state to another. The inhabi- 
tants of the New England, Delaware, and New 
Jersey States, are remarkable for their propen- 
sity to this. Numbers of them are seen, every 
year, moving with their flocks to the Illinois, 
Messouri, Mississippi, Allabama, &c. The Ame- 
ricans, however are, from being accustomed to 
the climate, more capable of sustaining the 
fatigues of travelling, and are less subject to 
those vicissitudes of health, caused generally by 
exposure in the autum or fall* of the year. 

The States host suited, and offering the fairest 
advantages to emigrants bent upon agricultural 
or commercial pursuits, are New York, Pensyl- 
venia, Maryland, Ohio, and Kentucky. These 
are in soil and climate, preferable to most of 
the other states, all of which shall be introduced 
in turn, and their peculiar advantages pointed 
out. Slavery which forms so leading a feature 
among the proprietors and planters throughout 
Kentucky, is a considerable bar to strangers 
wishing to reside in it ; besides this, many te- 
nures of landed property have been wrested 
from their late possessors, by tlie descendants 
of officers in tlie American revolution, on whom 

* The months of August, September and October, are 
called the fail. 



the government of tliat day had conferred 
them for their servies in tlie struggles for their 
freedom ; therefore to purchase land in Ken- 
tucky under any other title than that of 
Congress-lands,* would be precarious to the 
stranger. To settle in Louisville, however, 
which is the most trading city in Kentucky or 
of the south-west, presents very flattering pros- 
pects to the merchant possessing a capital of 
about five hundred or a thousand pounds, and 
tolerably conversant in trade. Louisville con- 
tains, (including blacks,) about 11,000 inha- 
bitants. Tlie state of Ohio, where no slavery 
prevails, offers more solid advantages to tlie 
purchaser of laud. Those therefore who emi- 
grate for the exclusive purposes of agi'iculture, 
^vill act prudently to take their passage for Bal- 
timore which is the most convenient seaport to 
land in for that state. On his arrival, let the 
emigrant endeavour to seek out the most re- 
spectable Irishmen who have been residing in 
Baltimore for some time. Luke Tiernan, Esq., 
and sons, are amongst the most beneficent cha- 
racters of that city, and have been for mauy 
years, prominent in doing acts of kindness for 
the Irish. 

Those whose funds may be but moderate 
after their voyage to America, should be very 
explicit to the gentlemen by whom they will 
wish to be advised, and candidly inform them 

* This term Congress implies govermnent. 



what tlieir objects and means may be. Some, 
from a false delicacy, often conceal their inten- 
tions from the man whom they consult. It 
would, no doubt, be extreme imprudence for 
the stranger to communicate his designs to 
every Irishman whom he may meet in the 
United States ; many of them will be found 
very degenerate characters, and dangerous to 
associate with ; while others, through sordid 
motives of avarice, will endeavour to persuade 
those with whom they converse, that the new 
States of Illinois and the Messouri, &c., are 
preferable to any of the others. Under all 
these considerations, it behoves the emigrant to 
be extremely guarded, and to look out immedi- 
ately after landing for the Irish gentleman who 
will riot deceive him. 

There is not, from the concurring testimony 
of the Americans themselves, a state among the 
twenty-four, of which the union at present con- 
sits, to be preferred to the State of Ohio for 
any of the purposes of agriculture: the lands are 
fit for all kinds of grain, wheat, barley, &c., 
and Indian corn. The meadows and pastures 
-which in America are called prairies, abound in 
this state. The planters, or, as they are called 
in Europe, farmers, are in this as well as in the 
eastern states, establishing themselves in com- 
fortable and independent respectability, living 
on their own estates, utter strangers to the pay- 



10 

ment of tythes, paying but few taxes towards 
the support of their government, for which they 
Lave the happiness of seeing themselves in the 
persons of their representatives, the makers of 
their own laws and constitution. 

The city of Cincinnati is situated on the banks 
of the Ohio, and the most important in the 
state ; it is beautifully built and contains a po- 
pulation of about 30,000 inhabitants — it is 
500 miles below Pittsburgh. Columbus, in the 
interior, is the seat of government. Both there 
and at Cincinnati, agents will be found for 
the disposal of lands belonging to Congress. 
When informed where they lie, the price being 
iixed by law at 1^ dollar per acre, (5s. 5d. 
British) it will be incumbent as a matter of 
course, on the emigrant to view wh^re he is 
about to meet an estate on such moderate terms. 
There are frequent instances of the proprietors 
of large tracts of land inclined to treat with 
emigrants for a stipulated sum; but if the 
stranger can meet with what will suit his expec- 
tations from the agents of Congress, the secu- 
rity of purchasing from the latter in preference, 
must be obvious to every man. In travelling 
fromBaltimore orPliiladelphia to the south-west, 
passengers have the opportunity of either pub- 
lic coaches or waggons ; these vehicles are as 
neatly constructed as they are in this country. 
The latter are preferred for a family, whereas 



11 

it will be possible to have their luggage carried 
by waggon, an important thing to a traveller 
in the United States. The waggons in America 
have covered roofs which afford security against 
the weather. The coach-drivers there differ 
widely in their habits from men of similar avo- 
cations in Europe — there they would deem it 
an insult to be offered money by any passenger. 
Many of our country-people have been often, on 
their first arrival in the United States, much 
surprised to find themselves, when travelling, 
at the same table with their drivers — no dis- 
tinction however need be looked for, as it is 
the general custom for travellers, and others, to 
dine &c., at the same table. All their hotels 
in America supply their guests in splendid, 
neat, and plentiful style ; at breakfast as well as 
at dinner, and at supper, ham, fowl, &c., &c., 
vegetables and all the et-ceteras, which charac- 
terise what is termed a good table, are furnished 
in a manner that prepossesses the stranger 
on his arrival in that countiy, in favour of the 
Americans, and of their modes of living. Pitts- 
burg was, some ten or twelve years ago, the 
general rendezvous for people travelling to 
the southwestern States, from the eastern — at 
present those who start from Baltimore drop in 
at Wheeling, forty miles below Pittsburg : there 
is at present a rail-road in progress called the 
Ohio and Baltimore rail-road. A canal also 



12 

has been undertaken to connect the trade of 
that river with lake Erie, which has already, or 
will establish a communication by water be- 
tween the city of New York and New Orleans, 
through the heart of the United States, a dist- 
ance of between two and three thousand miles. 
In a country where the spirit and enterprises of 
its inhabitants are always on the alert, and un- 
shackeled by laws which could interfere with 
the prosperity of her citizens, progressive im- 
provements must be always kept alive, particu- 
larly when the people know, that their country 
is totally free of debt which is termed national 
in some countries, where all are forced to bear 
directly or indirectly a part of the burden. 

The distance from Baltimore to Pittsburg is 
250 miles ; one hundred of which are over the 
Alleghany mountains. Many high precipices 
apparently very dangerous, are to be met with; 
accidents, however rarely occur, which is in a 
great measure owing to the great care of the 
drivers, and the gentleness of their horses, 
which are, throughout the state of Pensylvania, 
remarkable for being docile and good ; they re- 
semble the saddle kind in Ireland. 

The other road, which leads to Wheeling, is 
called the United States road, and for those 
proceeding from Baltimore to any of the states 
bordering on the Ohio, that is the preferable 
route. The middle class of farmers and labour- 



13 

ers will find it to be their advantage not to 
loiter or waste their money and time in any- 
city where they may have landed. However, 
let them not depart until they make the neces- 
sary enquiries from men incapable of leading 
them astray ; who, if they bring with them some 
respectable letters testifying their good character 
before they emigrated to the United States, will 
feel a pleasure in forwarding their views, and 
frequently give letters to the stranger to guide 
him : there is no country where the Irish emi- 
grant will meet so warm friends as in the United 
States, provided he will commence his career 
among them with industry and persevering at- 
tention to any place of trust or appointment that 
may be given him. Mechanics will always 
have a fair chance of employment in any of the 
great trading cities. New York, Philadelphia, 
Baltimore, Boston, or Charleston. To them, 
or to professional men, it would be a matter of 
indifference to which of these cities a vessel 
would be bound, in which they were to sail 
for America — the contrary is the case for farm- 
ers and labourers. Those who purpose to pur- 
chase land, should keep the state of Ohio, in 
view ; as to the labourer, he need scarcely ask 
a question more than to enquire on his landing 
where tillage prevails most ; he will find, that 
in the state of Pensylvania, many districts are 
before him, where he may be certain of meeting 



]4 

planters eager to have bis labour and reward 
him well. — The general wages in harvest is a 
dollar * a-day, and half that at other seasons. 

The planters in all parts of the United States 
feed their labourers, and, not as it is in Europe, 
have them at the same table with themselves ; 
the diet is always of the best kind, and abund- 
antly supplied. 

No man, however high in rank or respect- 
ability, will evince any pride or pre-eminence 
towards his domestics or his neighbours — all 
ostentation and vanity disappear in the mutual 
transactions of society in that land of freedom 
and equality, because every citizen seems to feel, 
and to be aware, that all men are alike. In the 
Slave States, however, there is a manifest dis- 
tinction between the white people and the blacks. 
These poor beings are, as if they were of a dif* 
ferent species, treated with severity by their 
owners; the smallest offence committed towards 
their masters, or an omission to execute their 
orders with promptitude, will bring upon them 
the infliction of the cow-hide, a whip so called, 
from being made of the hide of a cow or ox. 
It is permitted by their laws on slavery, to in- 
flict upon their naked backs, as many stripes as 
the caprice, or the disposition of the master or 
employer wishes. There have been some in- 
stances of slaves having died of severe flogging, 

* The dollar is worth 4s. 3d. British currency. 



15 

but the laws which authorise punishment, pro- 
vide likewise for the life of the slave, and 
should any die of their wounds, a capital prose- 
cution is instituted against him who causes their 
death. 

While we are treating of Ohio and Kentucky, 
it is worthy of remark, that nowhere are better 
Colleges and Schools to be found than in these 
two States, particularly in the latter. At Bairds- 
town, which is thirty-seven miles from Louis- 
ville, the Right Rev. Dr. Flaget and his coad- 
jutor Bishop David, have established a very 
celebrated university, in which all the sciences 
are taught and collegiate honours obtained. 
Students come to it from New Orleans, from 
the Isle of Cuba, and other West-India islands. 
Besides this establishment for general literature 
these worthy prelates have one for ecclesiastics 
exclusively. In the former, the very moderate 
pension of 100 dollars a-year, equal to £20, is 
paid by each student. In the latter, the young 
clergymen studying for the bishop's own diocese, 
are educated and boarded free of expence. There 
is, however, a large tract of land attached to 
the Ecclesiastical College, (perhaps 1000 acres,) 
in the culture of which, and assisting to raise 
the crops intended for the support of the house, 
the students help, perhaps for two hours a-day. 
There is not, in any country, a more amiable, 



16 

humane, and charitable character, than the 
Right Rev. Dr. Flaget — his name is revered 
and loved by all sects throughout the state. 
He has been the first Catholic Bishop in the 
south-west of the United States ; was professor 
in St. Mary's College, Baltimore, and a French- 
man. The present King of France, while Duke 
of Orleans, and to whom Bishop Flaget is per- 
sonally known, made him large and valuable 
presents for his cathedral church ; the Duchess 
likewise sent him considerable aid in money to 
complete the building of it. This good bishop 
has also established several Nunneries in the 
neighboured of Bairdstown. He is well known 
to be very partial to the Irish. 

At Lexington, which is a large, handsome, 
and well-built town, in the interior of Kentucky, 
containing about 8,000 inhabitants, stands 
the Transylvanian University. Here likewise 
young gentlemen graduate and make their col- 
lege courses. It has been famed, during a 
number of years, for able professors, and has 
attained great celebrity in the south-western 
parts of the union ; a gramar-school preparatory 
for entrance into college is attached to it. 

At Louisville there are some very respectable 
schools, and an academy under the guidance and 
controul of trustees. In the whole, it can be 
truly said of Kentucky, that its citizens are 



17 

infinitely a more polished and enlightened peo- ^ 
pie than is generally supposed, and from the \ 
attention paid by them, to the education of 
their children, hopes might be reasonably in- 
dulged that Kentucky will rank as one of the 
first states in the union — it is a remarkable fea- 
ture in the general education of the young 
American ladies, that they very frequently read 
a good portion of the Latin Classics and mathe- 
matics. 

Ohio, which is so worthy of great attention 
from emigrants, both on account of its being 
exempt from slavery, and its rapid growth, so 
as to be at present one of the most flourishing 
in the United States, has many fine towns 
besides the charming city of Cincinnati, to be 
met with in sailing down the river — some 
splendid seats present themselves in many parts 
also to the eyes of the traveller as he passes 
along ; he must necessarily feel amazed to see 
magnificent dwellings, such as would grace 
even a city in Europe, among what is called the 
wild woods of America. The lands on both 
the Kentucky and Ohio sides swell occasionally 
into gentle hills richly wooded with the finest 
timber-trees and shrubs of great variety during 
the season of blossom ; meadows called prairies 
in that country, catch in many places, likewise 

the admiration of the emigrant along the banks 
b3 



18 

of the cliarming Ohio. In the city of Cincin- 
nati, there is a college for ecclesiastical stu- 
dents, and a school for the admission of day 
pupils, adjoining the cathedral church. 

All the towns, villages, &c., from Baltimore to 
Louisville, (a distance of 950 miles,) have, from 
their exterior appearance of neatness, a similar 
claim on the attention of the traveller, except 
McConnelstown on the Alleghany mountains, 
which appears to be of some two or three hundred 
years standing, and Pittsburgh at the head of 
the Ohio, generally called the Birmingham of 
America, from the several manufactories carried 
on in it. The general fuel of the inhabitants is 
coal dug out of the fertile hills which sur- 
round it; this article sells for 3 cents, viz., 
IJ a bushel; and is equal to any Whitehaven 
imported into Ireland. From these causes, 
this city which may be called the Philadelphia 
of those parts of Pensylvania, lying west of the 
Alleghany mountains, has all the appearance of 
an English manufacturing town — the inhabit- 
ants are said to be in general wealthy and inde- 
pendent, and may be estimated at about 15,000. 
There are some good hotels at Pittsburg, and 
more reasonable in their charges than in an 
eastern city. Boarding houses are numerous in 
all the great towns of the United States — the 
'■fare usually charged varies from 2^ to 5 dollars 
a- week — viz., about 10s., 15s., or 20s. The 



19 

Americans throughout the states of the union, >* 
must be allowed by every man who has.been V 
amongst them, to be extremely affable, attentive, *1^ 
and polite to strangers — hospitality too is found ^ 
to prevail extensively in the United States. 

The various religious sects that are to be 
met with in America, are often found from 
their writings, and at their preaching-houses, 
to attack those of opposite persuasions. An 
Irishman, on his arrival amongst them, whereas 
it will be his interest to conciliate the good 
opinion of all, ought to avoid carefully to in- 
termix in any of their disputes, and to appear 
perfectly disinterested upon all religious topics, ^ 
except in this particular, that, whether he be 
Catholic or Protestant, &c., he should attend 
well, according even to the Americans, to what- 
ever religion he professes. A greater latitude and 
indifference on the score of religion, is allowed 
to prevail amongst emigrants lately arrived in 
the United States than amongst the Americans 
themselves. It is admitted by many Irish cler- 
gymen who have been amongst them, that they 
are before our country-people in their religious 
practices, particularly the Catholics. A pre- 
dilection for those of their own tenets, displays 
itself strongly amongst all the sects except the 
latter — these, it is well known, are the most 
tenacious of conferring favours upon men of 
their own creed. 

There is nothing which should be more 



20 

strongly impressed on the minds of our country- 
men when emigrating than the dangers conse- 
quent upon indulging in the use of spirits ; it is 
a habit so peculiar to the lower classes of the 
Irish settled in the United States, that, if a man 
be seen drunk in that country, it is immedi- 
f ately inferred, he must be an Irishman. This 
*<eeneral opinion of the Americans concerning 
Ihe Irish character, has been frequently injuri- 
ous to emigrants, particularly from Ireland, for, 
in no one instance does it happen, that our 
country-people do not experience diffidence ex- 
ercised towards them on their arrival in the 
XTnited States. The opportunity of purchasing 

^o cheap liquors, especially whiskey, (at the 

'^ery low price of 15d. viz., 30 cents a gallon,) 
is the great cause of the labouring classes in 
that country to drink without reserve, and at 
all hours. Notwithstanding the great propen- 
sity among the Irish to drink so freely and 
often, the Americans themselves indulge in that 
way. Those of the highest rank in respect- 
.^bility amongst them, would make no scruple to 

^ take a glass of cherry-hoimce in the morning as 
^ell as after dinner ; but, like the French, they 

\^ drink moderately though frequently. In no coun- 
try, will the correct Irishman, when known to be 
such, meet with more respect or more genuine 
friendship, than in the United States. 

In order to make true and valuable friends 



21 

in America, it behoves the stranger to conduct ^ 
himself with industry, prudence, and sobriety, k 
No people will discover a blemish in others \^ 
more quickly than the Americans, nor any who .f 
will attach themselves more warmly to a man ' 
of merit. 

The State of Maryland is well situated for 
the great commercial intercourse which pre- 
vails between it and those of Pensylvania, Vir- 
ginia, and Delaware. The western parts of 
Maryland are healthy, but less fertile in the 1 
quality of the soil than what is called the 
eastern shore lying on the east of the Chesa- 
peak bay, which is 200 miles in length from 
the ocean to the city of Baltimore. The first 
consideration should be with emigrants when 
purchasing to guard against low or swampy 
situations which are generally unhealthy, and '% 
subject to fever and ague in the fall of the year. 
The middle and west of this state therefore, 
though the lands be less rich than those along 
the Chesapeak, appear to be more inviting. The 
improvements that are to be seen on every side 
by the traveller on his approach to Baltimore,, 
indicate what may be expected to be met with ^^ 
in that city, a rich and happy population. 
Wheat and tobacco are the staple commodities 
of Maryland ; hemp and flax are also raised in 
considerable quantities. Slavery prevails equally „„^ 
in this state as in Virginia and Kentucky. 



t 



22 

No city in the United States catches the at- 
tention of strangers more than Baltimore. It 
is divided into the new and old towns. The 
houses are in general neat and well built ; the 
streets well paved ; the side-ways are done with 
brick, and being washed every morning, add 
considerably to the general appearance of clean- 
liness for which Baltimore is so remarkable. 
White marble steps before the entrance of many 
of their houses, and window-stools to corres- 
pond, have a delightful effect, and display the 
tastefulness and neat construction of the houses 
of the citizens. Were the writer of this small 
work to choose, among the cities he has seen 
in America, France, or England, one in which 
he would be most delighted to reside, he should 
prefer either Cincinnati on the banks of the 
Ohio, or the city of Baltimore. Besides the old 
and new towns alluded to above. Fells point is 
distinct from either ; it is about a mile apart, 
has a population of a few thousands, and is 
neatly built like the other garts of the city ; it is 
there that the large shiping enter and lie at 
anchor. The quays along which the small vessels 
discharge their cargoes, extend into the new 
town. The merchants stores and the public 
one for the tobacco trade, bespeak at once an 
extensive home and foreign commerce. 

The markets of Baltimore are plentiful and 
well supplied; the prices vai-y as in other coun- 



23 

tries, but are much lower for every article than 
in England or Ireland — the prices of provision 
generally correspond with those of Philadelphia 
which will be given. The stores which we call 
shops in Europe, are elegantly supplied with 
every fashionable article of dress. The Americans a 
import more of their silks from France and Italy 
than from England. The ladies of Baltimore 
cannot be surpassed, and in few countries , 
equalled for their neat modes of dressing ; they 
seldom appear but in silk. The Canton-crape, 
imported from China so rarely seen in other ^^ 
countries, makes the principal and most pre- 
vailing dress of the ladies tln*oughout the United 
States. Gentlemens' wearing apparel is almost 
the same as in England, with this exception, 
that the Americans coming in from the coun- 
try parts, are chiefly clad in what they call do- 
mestic, manufactured by themselves ; in every 
instance of apparent comfort, no nation in Eu- *) 
rope can surpass, and few equal them. All their 
resources are applied to the general benefit and 
wants of themselves and families — their expen- 
diture for public purposes being moderate in the 
extreme. The house-rent in many of the great \ 
towns or cities of the union are low — it is pos- 
sible for a respectable tradesman or labourer to 
meet in America, houses that are comfortable 
and well suited to their sphere in life, at what 
may be termed easy rents. All their dwellings, 



24 

whether great or small, are extremely neat and 
well finished. But that which operates most 
favourably for the occupying tenant is, that he 
is an utter stranger to the payment of taxes. 
Any that are levied for the city or states go- 
vernment, must be paid exclusively by the 
landlord : he is obliged also to keep the house 
in fit repair ; but he calls for his rent every 
<iuarter the same as in France. The general 
rents paid in that country run from 40 to 300 
dollars a-year, viz., atabout 8 to 60 pounds 
British. The brief description now given of 
Baltimore may suffice for several of the cities 
in the United States regarding the convenience 
of their dwellings, house-rent, and taxes. 

The citizens of Baltimore devote great regard 
to the education of their children. In St. 
Mary's College many of them have been brought 
up for the learned professions. This Univer- 
sity had been founded by French clergymen 
who had fled to America from the revolution 
that broke out under Louis XVI. A Medical 
College in that city has also attained great ce- 
lebrity, and is well frequented by students from 
every part of the Union. The public schools in it 
are very respectable; many of the principals over 
them are Irishmen. The several houses of wor- 
ship in Baltimore are superbly built, and well 
supported by their respective congregations. The 
Roman Catholic Cathedral is a splendid struc- 



25 

ture; it surpasses all the ot]iers, and any in the 
United States, for beauty and magnificence, 
the organ belonging to it was made in the city 
of New York, and cost 6,000 dollars, £1275. 
British. The rents paid for pews are appro- 
priated to the maintenance of the clergymen and 
the incidental expenses of the churches, for the 
management of these purposes, trustees are an- 
nually chosen. The archbishop of Baltimore has 
but 2,000 dollars a-year; and the other clergy- 
men but 4,00 each. The spiritual jurisdiction 
of this prelate extends over all the Catholic 
churches throughout the United States. 

The state of Pensylvania has been generally 
settled by the Dutch ; more Germans are to be 
met with in this than in all the other States. 
They are noted for being exceedingly industri- 
ous, and persevering — a Dutch planter or trader 
is proverbially eager to amass money. They are 
less proud than our countrymen, and afford a 
fairer opportunity for employment to the Irish 
labourers who go amongst them, than any 
others throughout the states. Perfect equality 
reigns between the employers in Pensylvania 
and their workmen. The same table, the same 
diet and attention are shewn to them as to any 
member of the family. At every meal, the best 
meat, bread, &c., &c., are in abundance for all. 
The wages paid in harvest are generally a dollar 
a-day, 4s. 3d. British ; and half that at other 



26 

seasons — the time of harvest begins the second 
week in July or about the 4th5 the anniversary 
of American independence. It matters not for 
the labourer or hardy farmer whether he take 
ship for Philadelphia, or Baltimore, intending 
to meet the harvest. To sail from Liverpool in 
the first week of May, is a fit time to calculate 
upon, for overtaking the American wheat 
harvest. The latter end of April might be still 
more prudent : the number of days that may be 
spent in making a voyage to America, varies 
according to the wind and weather ; sometimes 
it will be a voyage of fifty or sixty days ; some- 
times not more than forty — according to this 
length of time the passengers, will, of course, 
have to calculate for their provisions to last 
them.* It is well known from experience, that 
sea-store furnished by the captain, is never so 
good as what passengers provide for themselves. 
The fare paid for a steerage passage has fallen 
the last one and two years. About three pounds, 
and sometimes so low as fifty shillings, are 
paid at Liverpool to any eastern port in America. 
Let the following advice sink deep in the 
mind of emigrants, especially the farmer and 

* A family taking a cabin passage will find it their in- 
terest to provide their own sea-store. The cabin-boy is 
obliged to cook for them. The prices vary according to 
the number of persons. When I sailed from Cork for the 
United States, I paid to Harvey and Co., quakers, for my- 
self, my wife, and three children, £50, and provided ray 
own sea-store. 



27 



labourer, to take slnp for no other place than 
Baltimore, Philadelphia, or New York. Many 
when they arrive at Liverpool, are deceived by 
people employed purposely to lead them astray. 
Frequently vessels bound for Richmond or Nor- 
folk, in the State of Virginia, will be represent- 
ed to forward the passengers to Baltimore, 
&c., but when they get them once on shore, 
they will leave them to their fate. Others will 
undertake to assure the passengers, that if they 
land at Boston, the same opportunities of catch- 
ing the harvest will be, as if they landed at 
Baltimore, Philadelphia, or New York. The 
most simple labouring man will see, that if he 
were returning from England to catch the 
harvest in the county Kildare, it would be widely 
different for his purposes to land in Cork, as it 
would be to land in Dublin. The same disad- 
vantages will arise to him by landing at Rich- 
mond or Boston, intending to overtake the 
harvest in the above states. Let the state of 
Maryland therefore be in the eye of the labourer, 
for which Baltimore is the principal seaport; 
this route will answer for the emigrant steer- 
ing for Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, or the Messouri; 
also for Kentucky, Tennesse, or Mi^^sissippi. 

The state of Pensylvania being now before 
us, the emigrant must keep it well in memory 
that this is the most agricultural of any o 
the states. The man therefore seeking the sea- 



28 

son of harvest in this state exchisively, most be 
firm in liis mind to take ship, if possible, for 
Philadelphia, and if not, for Baltimore. On 
his arrival in that city, let him enquire for the 

^ llight Rev. Bishop Kendrick ; either this worthy 
prelate, or some of his clergymen will direct to 
whom he can apply for instructions with safety. 
The late Rev. Mr. Kendrick, parish priest of 
Francis-street, was nncle to Dr. Kendrick, the 
present bishop of Philadelphia. 

This young bishop was sent out some ten 
years ago, from the College de Propaganda Fide 

^1^ in Rome, to the Right Rev. Dr. Flaget of 
Bairdstown, Kentucky, where be was for some 
years professor of theology. Before his conse- 
cration and appointment to this see, the church 

» there was governed by a Right Rev. Dr. Con- 
well, who lives at present in or near that city 
on a pension. To give some idea to the Catholic 
priesthood of Ireland of the difficulties attendant 
on the duties of the American hierarchy, and the 
rigid \drtues which an Irish clergyman should 
practice on the American mission, it will not 
be amiss to record, in this place, a singular in- 
cident that arose to the Right Rev. Dr. Conwell 
on his first* arrival in the city of Philadelphia. 
There was a Rev. Mr. Hogan from the county 
of Limerick, living for some short period, pre- 

* This Right Reverend prelate went to Rome from 
America and returned again. 



29 

viously to this bishop's going out, in St. Mary's 
church as the officiating clergyman. He was 
esteemed greatly by the Catholics of Philadel- 
phia, and looked upon to be very gentleman- 
like, prepossessing in his manners, and a good 
preacher. The bishop, upon his arival in that 
city, heard some matters to the disparagement 
of the Rev. Mr. Hogan. His lordship sent him 
a communication to remove to some distant part 
of the diocese, which order of the bishop he 
refused to comply with ; besides, he continued 
to officiate and kept forcible possession of St. 
Mary's, the cathedral church. Tliis clergyman 
continued for some three or four years to op- 
pose, and even sent a remonstrance to Rome. 
The reply from the Holy See was favourable to 
the bishop's views concerning the Rev. Mr. 
Hogan and the Catholic church in that city. 
Unhappily for the sake of concord and of re- 
ligion, there was a powerful party of the citizens 
who espoused the cause of the priest. At one 
of their elections for Trustees on an Easter 
monday, who are annually chosen, a most scan- 
dalous scene took place. The two parties who 
favoured Dr. Conwell on one side, and Rev. 
Mr. Hogan on the other, fought within the 
precincts of the church, with swords, dirks, &c. 
The affray ended only by the authority of the 
Mayor, assisted by an armed force. This un- 
happy clergyman being at length abandoned by 
c 3 



so 

his adherents, in consequence of his morals be- 
coming dissolute and flagrantly vicious, turn- 
ed lawyer and embraced the married state. 

The city of Philadelphia stands between the 
rivers Delaware and Schuylkill ; it is very ex- 
tended and beautifully built — its population is 
very considerable, amounting, according to a 
census taken in 1829, to 168,000 inhabitants — 
its distance from the ocean is 118 miles — the 
numerous shipping to be seen along the Del- 
aware, on the banks of which this city stands, 
display, at once, an extensive trade. Mr. Penn, 
a quaker, was the founder of this city in 1682. 
The market-house stands in the center of the 
street called market-street, which is 100 feet 
wide; it is so long that all, both buyers and 
sellers, have ample space in it to transact their 
business. The prices in general for meat, &c., 
run thus : — 

Beef, from 5 to 7 cents; 2Jd. to 3gd. per lb. — 
. Mutton, do. 4 to 6 cents ; 2d. to 3d. ditto. — Ba- 
con in middles, 6 to 8 cents ; 3d. to 4d. — Ham, 
ditto. — Shoulders,* 5to 7 cents ; 2Jd. 3 Jd. — But- 
ter, from 10, 16, 25 cents; 5d., 8d., to IsJ. — 
Corn Meal, per bushel, 12^ cents; 6id. — Flour 
is always cheaper than in England, but varies 
more in the American market, than in most 
countries, the export of it being very considerable 

* The shoulders of pork are cured the same as ham, 
by the Americans. 



31 

to South America, and to many coimtries of 
Europe : it is made up in barrels both for home 
consumption and exportation. The cheapness 
of wine in Philadelphia is not a little strange ; , 
port of an excellent quality can be purchased 
at 75 cents per gallon, about 9Jd. per quart. 
The moderate duty paid is the cause of its being 
so low in price. Whiskey, and other liquors 
are so sheap, that strangers are tempted to in- 1 
dulge immoderately in the use of them. The 
emigrant should immediately, after making the 
enquiries suggested in another place, proceed 
into the interior of the country, where he will 
meet many fine towns, villages, &c., and plenty ^^ 
of wealthy Dutchmen seeking for hands. If the ~ 
Irish labourer conduct himself soberly, respect- 
fully, and with due attention to the affairs of 
his employer, he may be sure of having a fair 
chance of being continued during the winter and 
spring seasons, at various other works, such as 
felling and chopping fire- wood,* making roads, 
driving waggons, &c. — the wages, except in 
harvest, average at about half a dollar a-day, 
viz., 2s. 2d.; but at that particular time no 
planter will ask to pay less than the dollar, and 
the best of diet, at his own table ; though the-^ 
employer may keep his carriage, which all the 

• The chopping of firewood is generally done by task* 
After being chopped in lengths of four feet, it is chorded ; 
a chord of wood is eight feet long, four feet in height, 
and four in breadth. 



rich planters generally do, and there are few of 

"^them tliat are not rich. The same characters 

of whom we now speak, or their sons, fre»- 

- quently drive their own waggons to market, and 
on the Sabbath day, they dress themselves 

-^ equally well, and as neatly as the land-holders 

*"" in England could be seen to do. 

In the north and south-western parts of Pen- 
sylvania, the lands are allowed to be as good, 
and in many places, better than on the east side 

' of the Alleghanys, descriptively called the back 
bone of the United States. There were, some 
ten or a dozen years ago, many extensive tracts, 
on the west side, unsettled, and of course to be 
sold. The Alleghany river affords the opportu- 
nity to those who settle in the north-western 
parts of this state, to float their produce to 
Pitssburg, and from thence to the New Orleans 
market, by the waters of the Ohio and Missis- 
sippi. The best whiskey, perhaps in America, 
'is disilled from rye, and made in those parts of 

^^Pensylvania. Shingles made of the pine tree, 
are a great article of trade with the people 
there, who send immense piles of them upon 
floats down the river; these are throughout 
America, the general substitute for slates, which 
they resemble when the houses are roofed, and 
paint laid on. On the merchants stores, how- 
ever, or any public building, slates are made 
use of to counteract the ravages of fire, which 



33 

occur very frequently in the United States. The 
engines to extinguish them are at all times 
ready to be applied, and every citizen without 
distinction, must be enrolled to assist in working 
them. The author of this little treatise, avers, 
that he witnessed in Baltimore, in the month of 
June, 1822, a destruction of houses such as 
never before occurred in that city. Fifty-two 
of them, three stories high, adjoining the quay, 
which extends into the new town, were totally 
destroyed by fire. A meeting of the citizens 
was to have taken place, the day following, to 
subscribe for the relief of some districts in 
Ireland, which were represented in America to 
have been in a state of famine ; but the mis- 
fortune which occurred, the preceding night, 
having involved many of their fellow-citizens 
in ruin, the kind and charitable intentions of 
the good and benevolent people of Baltimore, 
were suspended, verifying the old adage of 
" charity begins at home." 

In his travels to and from Kentucky, a 
distance of 950 miles, the author of this ad- 
vice declares, that he had seen several tracts 
of land as fine in appearance as any that he 
has seen in Ireland, England, or France — so if 
an Irishman could be content with good rich 
land to live upon, he should not hesitate tOt 
change his life of struggling under heavy rents, 
tythes, and taxes, for a plantation in America, 



34 

and that too to be his own estate purchased 
for the moderate sum of 1| dollar per acre, 
which cannot be more than what should be 

^paid in Ireland at perhaps one gale of rent. 

In making this purchase, the emigrant must 
be very observant, that a river or creek be ad- 
joining to where he is about to fix himself, in 
order that the opportunities of sending his pro- 
duce to market, be not wanting to him. Neither 
should he be deterred from having no house 
already prepared or built upon what may, in 

r- other respects, be very eligible. The inhabi- 
tants who live nearest to where the new settler 
has purchased, will invariably assist in con- 
structing his log-house, the process of which 
is expeditious and easy. Trees which will suit 
in length and breadth for the intended dwel- 
ling, being cut down, are laid in the same man- 
ner as little boys build cribs to catch birds. 

:r. The height of an American log-house is gener- 
ally two stories. The roof will be the same as 
if the walls were built of other materials, and 
some are shingled, some are boarded according to 
occasion. The interstices or chasms between 
the logs, are usually filled with rubbish and 
mud, and plaistered over the chasms. 

Frame-houses are more frequently built in 
towns or villages than on a plantation, the 
owner of which will after a few years, as may 
be viewed throughout most of the states, build 
a fine brick mansion good enough for any of 



35 

our gentry to reside in. The clearing of land 
for purposes of agriculture, is an easier process, 
than is generally supposed. The Irish method 
of stubbing or grubbing a wood or scrub, is not 
necessary to be adopted in America.* The usual 
mode practised there, is, to cut the trees about 
three feet from the ground, and burn the felled 
timber, boughs, &c. unless carried off or sold for 
fire-wood at any of the adjoining towns or 
villages : the prices are generally 2 or 3 dollars * 
a chord, the dimensions of which have been 
given. The first crop sown in the new cleared 
ground, after being ploughed, is maize or Indian "^ 
corn, which may with justice be called the oat 
crop of America, as this valuable grain answers 
all the purposes of an oat crop in Ireland, being "" 
food for man and horse. It is sown in the early 
part of May, sometimes in April, in drills about 
4 feet asunder, and tilled between, during the 
summer. An American is able to run his plough 
among the most intricate stumps that remain : 
they disappear after a few years, as if the climate 
was favourable to destroy them. The second crop .^ 
is frequently maize again, and the third that of 
wheat ; the fourth year, oats, barley, or clover, 
according to the quality of the soil, &c. Many 
sheep are rarely seen with a planter, the heat 

* It is a frequent practice of the Americans, in clear- ^ 
ing fresh g-round to girdle some trees, viz., to ciit away *^ 
the bark around, by which the tree will then die. 



36 

and shade being unfavourable for this kind of 
stock. 

In their implements of husbandry, the Pen- 
sylvanians and Marylanders are not inferior to 
the farmers of England; treshing machines, 
^ploughs of the Scotch kind, harrows, farm carts, 
and waggons, are as neatly constructed, and in 
use among the American planters, as among the 
English. In the application of steam ; I believe 
the Americans excel : most of their flour and all 
their saw mills are worked by steam. Their 
. steam vessels certainly surpass those of England, 
for elegance of construction and neatness of ac- 
comodation for passengers. 

The price of land being fixed by law at 1| 
dollar per acre, (5s. 5d, British) any portion 
can be had, viz, 640 acres which make a sec- 
tion or even one-sixteenth, viz, 40 all at the 
same proportionable price. Some people with 
whom I have conversed, were favourable to the 
state of Illinois, in consequence, they said, of 
running stock upon or obtaining hay from the 
immense tracts of prairie lands that lie conti- 
guous to the high parts, where it would be 
possible to get settled. It must be understood 
however, that there is a difficulty to obtain 
labourers in this very new state, whereas in 
Ohio the country is becoming extremely popu- 
lous. In the neighbourhood of Cincinnati, a 
multitutle of new settlers principally consisting 



37 

of Germans, have established themselves, a good 
criterion to judge of tlie great advantages at- 
tached to the state of Ohio, and of the rising 
greatness of tliat deliglitful city. It will not be 
unacceptable to the Irish catholic who may steer 
his course to Ohio, to understand, that the 
present bishop of Cincinnati is a Dr. Purcell *"" 
from the county of Cork : he has been conse- 
crated, the last year, for that diocese, in the 
cathedral church of Baltimore. The author of 
this little work, has great pleasure in bearing 
testimony to the early virtues of this young 
bishop. He wjis a passenger on board the brig ^ 
Felicity, Captain Baynon, which sailed from 
Cove on July 1, 1818. The writer of this was 
with his wife and three children, passengers also 
in the same vessel. Many of the people on 
board, who were from Cork and Limerick, were 
exceedingly litigious, the whole passage, which 
lasted for about seventy days, during which we 
encountered several storms: This Right Rev. 
Dr. Parcel was then about eighteen years of age. 
In any of their quarrels he never interfered, and 
he and a family of young women named Barrys, 
were exemplary in offering up prayers, every ^ 
day, for themselves and fellow passengers. 

In resuming the subject on Pensylvania of 
which Philadelphia is the capital, it is fit to inform 
the reader, that there are some important towns 
in the interior of the state. Lancaster which is 

D 



38 

said to be the largest in the Union, stands sixty- 
six miles west of Philadelphia. It has an ele- 
gant court house, some handsome churches, and 
a population of about 10,000. The best land in 
the state of Pensylvania, is in the county of 
' Lancaster. 

Pittsburg lying in the south west has been 
already introduced : it is 320 miles from Phila- 
delphia. The situation of that city being at the 
head of the Ohio, into which the Monongahela 
which flows from the state of Virginia, and the 
Alleghany that rises in the state of New York, 
discharge their waters, has been always ad- 
mired for its beauty and convenience for trade, 
with all the states bordering on the Ohio, 
Mississippi and Missouri rivers. The coal pits 
already spoken of have added to its importance, 
and have been the cause of establishing in it 
numerous manufactories for Iron works, and a 
foundry for cannon and small arms. An ar- 
moury is also in it upon an extensive scale, as a 
military depot for the west. These things have 
gained for this place the epithet of the Birming- 
ham of the united states. Mariners would term 
the situation of Pittsburg a tongue of land, or 
might call it a small peninsula. The hills that 
surround it are thickly wooded and add much to 
the beauty of this flourishing city. 

Carlisle, a very considerable place in this 
state, is 120 miles westward of Pliiladelphia, 



has a college, and a court house, being the chief 
town of Cumberland county. 

Chambersburg, the last town of importance^ 
(jsBo) of the Alleghany mountains) to be met 
with when travelling to the west, is very large, 
clean, and well built; the principal planters 
adjoining are Dutchmen. When returning from 
Louisville, Kentucky, (in 1821) I, my wife, and 
five children with two servants, after arriving 
by steam boat, at Pittsburg, took a waggon for 
Baltimore ; this vehicle and driver happened to 
belong to a wealthy Dutchman near Chambers- 
burg. Having got clear of the Alleghany moun- 
tains and travelling being prohibited* by law, on 
the sabbath, we had to stop at a hotel near this 
dutch planter. Consistent with a spirit of hospi- 
tality more prevalent at this period of the world, 
in the united states than in Ireland, so famed for 
it of old, this good German waited upon us, and 
insisted, that we should spend the Sunday with 
him. We accordingly went, and experienced 
from him every hospitable attention and regard. 
At table no distinction was observed between his 
man who drove us, or any other member of his 
family. 

The town of most note upon tlie Alleghany 
mountains is Bedford : it is mucli frequented 
during the summer months, by the wealthy 

* The transmission of the mails is an exception in the 
act appertaining to travelling on the Sabbath. 



40 

citizens of Pliiladclpliia, Baltimore, Lancaster, 
&c. There is a spa in it, from which it has 
become a place of very fashionable resort. The 
town is neat, large, and well built. 

The emigrant may perhaps imagine, that his 
funds, when going to America, should consist 

-^ of dollars, as being the specified money of the 
United States. He will be in error to bring 
any but sovereigns, on which he will gain a 
premium of ten per cent., by changing them, 

'^ w^hen he lands, into United States money. In 
^every city of the Union, money-changers are to 
be found, who will impose on the stranger, (if 
he be not on his guard,) by persuading him to 
take, if he be going to any particular State, the 
paper currency belonging to it. It is well 
known by those who have travelled in America, 
that the value of money varies throughout the 
United States. For example, in 1821, Ken- 

s. tueky money was so depreciated that 184 dol- 
lars were worth, in nett value, biit 100 of United 
States. In every one of them there is a branch 
bank established, on which drafts can be obtained 
in an eastern city for deposits left in the mother 
bank at Philadelphia, or a branch belonging to 
it, in any of the other cities where passengers 
may happen to land. The Americans, particu- 
larly the Yankees, which name is generally 
applied to all from the New England States, 



41 

are infinitely more expert tlian Europeans in 
money as well as mercantile transactions. 

We will now turn to the State of New York, 
in order that the emigrant, after contrasting it 
with those of Maryland, Pensylvania, Ohio, 
and Kentucky, may be able to draw his own 
conclusions from the opinion given of each, and 
to determine to which he would give a prefer- 
ence, in making his first attempts in the 
United States. 

The harbour of New York is particularly 
distinguished for its easy communication with 
the Atlantic Ocean, and being connected with 
the great lakes, (which bound this State upon 
the north, separating it from the Canadas,) by 
means of the river Hudson, and a canal of 
about 300 miles in length, opening with Lake 
Erie, the merchants of New York are said to 
be the most extensive in the United States. 
York bay, which is nine miles long, and four 
broad, spreads to the southward before the city. 
It is formed by the confluence of the East and 
Hudson rivers, and embosoms several small is- 
lands, of which Governor Island is the principal. 
It communicates with the ocean, through the 
narrows between Staten and Long Island. The 
passage up to New York from Sandy-Hook, the 
point of land that extends farthest into the sea, 
is safe, and not above twenty miles in length. 
The common navigation is between east and 
d3 



42 

west banks, in about twenty- two feet of water. 
There is a light-house at Sandy-Hook, on the 
Jersey shore. 

New York, which contains 160,000 inhabit- 
ants, and is generally called the London of 
America, stands on the south-west point of an 
island, at the confluence of Hudson and East 
rivers. The principal part of the city lies on 
the east side of the island, although the build- 
ings extend from one river to the other. The 
length of the city on East River is about three 
miles, but is shorter on the banks of the Hudson. 
Its breadth, on an average, is three-fourths of a 
mile, and its circumference may be seven. The 
houses are generally built of brick, and the roofs 
tiled. This city is esteemed the most eligible 
situation for commerce in the United States. 
It commands almost half the trade of New 
Jersey, most of that of Connecticut, and part 
of the trade of Massachusetts ; besides the whole 
fertile interior country, which is watered by 
one of the largest rivers in America. 

The ladies of New York are thus, and, I 
believe, with justice, eulogized by their fellow- 
citizen, Jedediah Morse : " Tliis city is the 
gayest in America : the ladies, in the richness 
and brilliancy of their dress, are not surpassed 
in any other of the Union. They are not, how- 
ever, solely employed in their attentions to dress. 
New York can boast of numbers, of refined 



43 

taste, whose minds are highly improved, and 
whose conversation and accomplishments are 
much and justly admired. Tinctured wdth a 
Dutch education, they manage their families 
with good economy, and singular neatness." 

To keep shop in America, the general term 
for which, in that country, is, to keep store, 
Avould appear practicable to many of our coun- 
try folks before they start, for the United States. 
However, the opinion of others who have had 
some experience in the affairs of America, is to 
be looked to by the emigrant possessing pru- 
dence and precaution. No matter how clever 
a man may be at home, in point of trading, he 
will find, on his arrival in America, that the 
store-keeper in that country is still more clever 
than himself. 

To submit to the opportunity of becoming 
experienced in the methods pursued by a repect- 
able mercantile house in any of their cities or 
great towns, promises the fairest prospect of 
succeeding in that country as a merchant. — 
It would be, under any event, an imprudent 
enterprise for any European to commence .trad- 
ing in the United States, with a large capital, 
until he would first know the country and peo- 
ple, and their mode of doing business. The 
salaries paid to clerks, or store-keepers, are 
moderate, suppose 400 dollars a year, or 200 
with board. The object, therefore, should be. 



u 

to learn the general trade of the country, and 
the system observed by the Americans, who are 
altogether inclined for commerce; even their 
wealthiest planters, who, though rich in land 
and pi'oduce, still pant after trading and its 
profits. Every great proprietor in the Union 
has some concern with commercial enterprise, 
and to this the rapid growth of towns, the 
opening of canals in many of the States, and 
commencement of rail-roads, are, in a great 
degree, to be attributed. All such public im- 
provements must contribute essentially to the 
benefit of emigrants, and create, in addition to 
the harvest, a certain necessity for hands 
throughout the year. 

Public works in the United States are, in 
general, performed by those who make con- 
tracts, as in other countries ; but ihe remune- 
ration to the labourer differs widely* from what 
is to be earned, under similar circumstances, in 
these countries. The undertaker here can, with 
propriety, be denominated a real task-master ; 
but in America he has to bend to the dictates 
of reason, which tacitly remind him, that the 
men whom he employs are his fellow men, and 
-tvho will not, in a free country, as the United 
States are, submit to unfair exactions. In 



* A dollar a day is the usual allowance, viz. 4s. 3d., 
to labourers at canals, &c. ; one half of which they can 
save, with ease. 



45 

Ireland, the poor pittance paid to the lahonrer 
is not the only cause for bitter reflections ; the 
anthorotative tone, and threat always hanging 
over the poor man's liead, help to constitute the 
Ihik of hardsliips which the Irish labourer has 
to complain of. In the United States, the 
workman is looked for by the man who needs 
his labour, and the greater compliment, if any 
be due on either side, is due to the former. A 
lit remuneration, and a regard for the benefits 
produced by the strong arm of the labourer, 
are foremost in every consideration for the ge- 
neral good of the people. In these countries 
such calculations form but secondary objects of 
regard, private emolument taking precedence 
of every other. 

The city of Albany is situated upon the west 
side of Hudson's river, 160 miles north of the 
city of New York. The old dwellings have 
been all built in the gothic style, with the gable 
ends to the street, which custom the first set- 
tlers brought with them from Holland. Ad- 
venturers are led thither from all parts in 
pursuit of wealth ; situated on one of the finest 
rivers in the world, at the head of sloop naviga- 
tion, surrounded by a rich and extensive back 
country, and the store-house of trade to and 
from Canada and the lakes, it must flourish, and 
the inhabitants cannot but grow rich. Albany 



46 

is at present the seat of the government for the 
State of New York. 

The city of Hudson has had the most rapid 
growth of any place in America, if we except 
Baltimore in Maryland. It is situated on the 
east side of Hudson's river, 130 miles north of 
New York and thirty miles south of Albany. 
It is surrounded by an extensive and fertile 
back country, and in proportion to its size and 
population, carries on a large trade. 

The State of New York is bounded on the 
north by lake Ontario and the river St. Lau- 
rance which separate it from the Canadas ; on 
the east by the lakes Champlain and George; 
the states of Massachusetts and Connecticut; 
south by Pensylvania and Jersey ; west by lake 
Erie. It is 350 miles in length and in breadth 
300. 

The State of New York, to speak generally, 
is intersected by ridges of mountains running 
in a north east and South west direction. Be- 
yond the Alleghany mountains however the 
country is a dead level, of a fine rich soil 
covered in its natural state with maple, beech, 
birch, cherry, black walnut, locust, hickory, 
and some mulberry trees ; on the banks of lake 
Erie, are a few chestnut and oak ridges. *East 

* The quality of land in America is known by the 
timber. On the best, are chestnut and walnut. On 
'2nd. quality, maple, beech, oak, and hickory. On 3rd. 
pine, spruce, and tir-tree. 



47 

of the Alleghany mountains the country is 
generally broken into hills with rich intervening 
vallies. The hills are clothed thick with timber, 
and when cleared, afford fine pasture. The 
valleys when cultivated produce wheat, hemp, 
flax, pease, grass, oats, and Indian corn. Of 
the commodities produced from culture, wheat 
is the staple, of which immense quantities are 
raised and exported. 

Long Island lying east of the city of New 
York, is 140 miles, long. It is not upon an 
average more than ten miles in breadth. It is 
separated from Connecticut by Long Island 
sound. The soil of the south side is well calcu- 
lated for raising grain, especially Indian corn. 
In the north it is hilly, has a strong soil, and 
good for grain, hay, and fruit. Hamstead plain 
which is sixteen miles in length, and seven or 
eight miles broad, feeds large herds of cattle, 
horses, and sheep. 

Staten island lies nine miles south west of 
the city of New York, and is eighteen miles 
long and six or seven broad. On the south 
side the land is level and good, but the island 
is generally rough and the hills high. The in- 
habitants are principally Dutch and French. 

The prices of provisions in the market of 
New York are said to be lower than in Phila- 
delphia, which must be encouraging to emi- 
grants. Journeymen mechanics are well paid 



48 

and earn in a general calculation from IJ to 
2 dollars a day — employment in that city is 
also brisk, notwithstanding, that the New Eng- 
landers are pouring into it daily. One feature 
peculiarly favourable for mechanics in New 
York, is, that its merchants export incessantly 
the productions of their State and the manu" 
factures of their citizens, to Mexico, Brazil, and 
to other markets of South America. 

Farmers and labourers may, with confidence, 
take ship for New York ; the vast scope afforded 
for this class of people arriving at the proper 
season to meet the harvest, is manifest from the 
extent of the State, and the improvements in 
agriculture obviously increased by the establish- 
ment of the canal connecting the Hudson with 
lake Erie. The districts west of the Alleghanys 
are allowed to be better soil than on the east, 
which is a similar case with the State of Pen- 
sylvania. The opportunities of proceeding up 
the Hudson to Albany and from thence to the 
west, by canal, are cheaper than in any part of 
the world. But it has been already observed, that 
the prospects throughout Pensylvania are more 
flattering to the above class of emigrants, on 
account of its being more under agriculture, 
and the States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and 
the Messouri being before them, if they wish 
to proceed to any of them in particular. If on 
his arrival in America, the farmer has not 



49 

sufficient money to enable liim to purchase land, 
let him submit to earn for a year or two ; this 
short period will by economy raise means suf- 
iicient to purchase one-eighth of a section, viz., 
eighty acres. Every opportunity to earn and 
subsist themselves, should be embraced by all 
classes of emigrants, whicli will secure not only 
independance in their circumstances, but will 
tend greatly to raise friends that will interest 
themselves in advancing the views of the indus- 
trious and well conducted stranger. 

It is a matter greatly to be deplored, that the 
means of emigrating to the United States, are 
so limited among the labouring classes of Irish- 
men; the inclination which our countrymen 
have to earn an honest livelihood, must forcibly 
strike every man who witnesses the multitudes 
of people of this class, endeavouring to catch a 
few shillings from the farmers of England, 
during the few weeks that their harvest con- 
tinues. Scarcely will this opportunity be ended, 
when they return with hasty strides to catch a 
little among the farmers in impoverished Ire- 
land. Let any rational man compare England 
and Ireland in these respects to America, and 
he must see, that it is the greatest misfortune to 
the labouring Irish, that they are not able from 
want of means, to leave a country where nothing 
but abject poverty and destitution stare them 
in the face. The planters of America sigh 



50 

almost with a desire of seeing our countrymen 
particularly farmers, labourers, and mechanics 
arrive amongst them. If one half of these three 
classes who are in Ireland, were to land in Bal- 
timore, Philadelphia, and New York, and direct 
their march to the various parts of those States, 
where the agricultural planters are numerous 
and wealthy, they would find, that their condi- 
tion was then what it should be with all men, 
one of comfort and contentment, and at length 
freed from all the apprehensions of abject dis- 
tress and the wants of food and raiment. 

In the short preface to this work, it has been 
expressly recommended to emigrants, to prefer 
the United States to any part of the western 
world. The vast difference in the climate of the 
British colonies, and that of the United States, 
cannot escape the notice of any observer, in the 
local situation and latitude of both. It is a well 
known fact too, that numbers who had emi- 
grated to Canada, have subsequently gone into 
the United States, while it must be confessed 
and admitted, that scarcely an emigrant who had 
first emigrated to the United States, has subse- 
quently gone from thence to Canada. I should 
deem it a hardship to lead even an enemy astray^ 
and common charity should influence even an 
obdurate character to confess, that the man who 
leaves his country in search of a better home, 
should be permitted to choose the best. 



51 

Irishmen having the necessary qualifications 
to become teachers, woukl meet good encourage- 
ment in many of the United States, except in 
those of New England; it would be a vain 
attempt to seek Yankee patronage in the line of 
education. It is well understood, that even 
the other States of the Union, are frequently 
crowded with literary men from Cambridge 
university near Boston, and from Yale college 
in Connecticut. Tliese characters are indefati- 
gable to gain precedence over the Irishman of a 
similar profession. The latter will, notwith- 
standing, succeed, if his pretentions to the 
necessaiy qualifications, bear him out. A per- 
fect knowledge of the Greek and Latin classics, 
together with a portion of Mathematics, added 
to some brilliancy in the several branches of the 
English language, will (it can be confidently 
anticipated) meet very flattering encouragement, 
in the new and old states, except Massachusetts, 
Rhode-Island, Connecticut, Vermont, and New- 
Hampshire. The well regulated system of 
educaiton, adopted and pursued by the New 
Englanders, has secured to all classes of their 
people, the means of bringing up their children, 
in all the acquirements of a polished and useful 
education. No district, nor portion of a district, 
is left without a proper number of schools and 
academies. Tliese five states afford an example 
to all the world, worthy of imitation. A mode- 



52 

rate tax is paid by every class of citizens among 
tliem, for the maintenance of all their literary 
institutions. 

The terms paid to a first-rate classical teacher? 
are seldom less than a thousand dollars a year' 
equal to £200. There are trustees appointed to 
every respectable academy, who stipulate for 
the salary and select the professor, naming like- 
wise the number of pupils of whom he is to take 
charge. It is a very general custom to appoint 
some gentleman of a literary standing, to vouch 
for the capability of the candidate. The Ame- 
ricans are peculiarly observant of the deport- 
ment, manners, and address of the gentleman 
about to be appointed to any of their lit(^rary 
establishments. Good mathematicians combin- 
ing with what they profess to instruct in, 
a gentlemanlike appearance, and industrious 
habits, will also meet ample patronage among 
the citizens of the states alluded to as above. 

In anotlier place it has been recommended to 
such emigrants as bring ample means of pur- 
chasing, to seek to settle in the neighbourhood 
of some of the eastern cities. In New York, 
Philadelphia, Boston, or Baltimore, these op- 
portunities are frequent; an advertisement spe- 
cifying what portion of land with a good brick 
house, &c. &c. might be wanted, would be 
speedily attended to by many. Such instancee 
are frequent, when the emigrant has capital 
sufficient for locating himself among tlie old 



53 

settlers. Gentlemen who have lived at home 
in ease and affluent circumstances, and who 
may from various causes wish to emigrate to the 
United States, will act well to step, at once, 
into the possession of a comfortable residence. 
Seldom, more will be asked for this kind of 
settlement, than one half of what should be 
paid in Europe. No man who speaks fairly of 
America, will deny, that a good share of incon- 
venience, must be encountered for some two or 
three years, by the emigrant who proceeds to 
the west. But if he be young, or has a family 
of sons, I would pronounce him to be wanting in 
courage, if he did not advance a few hundred 
miles, and purchase 640 acres of good land for 
£136, viz. 800 dollars, being \l dollar per acre. 
To our Irish gentry who look to society and 
say to themselves, we will meet none but rude 
Americans, if we emigrate, I answer, that there 
are numbers of citizens in the United States, 
particularly in the cities and great towns, as 
polished as themselves, and who live in as much 
splendour and enjoyment, as most gentlemen in 
the old country ; therefore there cannot be any 
want of society in the United States. It cannot 
be denied by any traveller who has been in 
North America, that the general deportment, 
conversation, and dialect of the natives in the 
United States, are more pleasing, than amongst 
numbers of the English themselves. A well 
£ 3 



54 

educated American, particularly from any of 
tlie New England States, is one of the most 
pleasing companions that could be met with in 
any country. A Mrs. Trollop has lately pro- 
duced a treatise on the people of the United 
States, which is as discreditable to the authoress 
as it is untrue, on the character of the people 
she has attempted to describe. 

It may not be understood by all who wish to 
emigrate, that there is, at present, a protecting 
duty, against foreign competition, for the ma- 
nufactures of the United States. Previous to 
what is called the Tariif, VA'hich imposed certain 
duties on the importation of British goods, it 
was possible for the merchants of England to 
export to that country, and undersell the Ame- 
ricans, at home. The ease is now quite changed : 
by the laws recently made, concerning the com- 
merce of their country, the American manufac- 
turers are secured in the home market, and 
consequently enabled to extend themselves in 
trade, and to give employment to many, who 
were previously suffering from the redundancy 
of British ware, in the United States market. 

As all those who profess any particular trade, 
or calling, are generally anxious to be informed 
i f they might expect to find encouragement in 
the United States, some trades are now given, 
which would meet, if not in an eastern city 
where they may land, a hearty welcome from 



55 

the good citizens of the west. Prhiters, cn^ 
gravers, braziers, glovers, hosiers, halters, 
slioe-makers, tailors, black-smiths, silver-smiths, 
watch-makers, cutlers, carpenters, bricklayers, 
stone-masons, plaisterers, musicians, coach- 
makers, labourers, servants — male and female. 

In Pittsburg, Cincinnati, and Louisville, be- 
sides many intervening towns, which possess a 
considerable trade, all the above professions 
might be sure of being employed. 

In the west, as well as in the east, manufac- 
tories are starting into existence, and an export 
trade flourishes, and finds a vent through New 
Orleans, to foreign markets. Provisions of all 
kinds are forwarded by the same channel for 
exportation. 

The wages paid to tradesmen in the west, are 
allowed to be as good as what they receive in an 
eastern city ; of which, the payments that are 
given in New York may serve as a criterion. 
The advantages of a cheap market are of the 
first importance to a settler v/ith a family. The 
city of Cincinnatti affords these opportunities, as 
every article for home consumption is to be 
obtained for nearly one-half what they would 
cost in an eastern city. It would be a matter 
of prudence for any emigrant depending on his 
labour, to proceed by easy journeys, (earning, 
as he passes along,) from the east to a western 
State. His first attention should be, after land- 



56 

ing, to seek out where the Irisli gentleman is to 
be found. He will, no doubt, inform him if 
there be any society established for the purposes 
of directing emigrants. The names already 
given under the head of Baltimore and Phila- 
delphia, will not let the stranger be imposed 
upon. Tlie State of Pensylvania affords plenty 
of employment, if the time for arriving there 
be strictly attended to ; the State, also, of New 
York, is worthy the attention of all classes 
emigrating from these countries. 

In providing sea store, let the emigrant cal- 
culate his passage out, for fifty days. It some- 
times happens, that a voyage to the United 
States is performed in a shorter time, but any 
provision remaining will be useful, and save 
expense after he lands. The following articles 
are to be pro^dded ; — Biscuit of the best quality, 
whereas the inferior kind, becomes injured in 
a short time at sea. Oatmeal to be used occa- 
sionally in stirabout, with molasses ; potatoes ; 
bacon ; butter ; tea, sugar, and Coffee ; some 
whiskey, to moderate the taste of the water, 
which is soon injured at sea. Plenty of water 
is the greatest luxury on ship-board. For a 
family going out, it is very necessary that an 
additional cask of water be brought, besides 
what the ship is bound to supply. In the 
giving out of the water, the greatest parsimony 
is observed by the captain, or mate, and thus it 



57 

is that the passengers often implore, in vain, for 
more. Medicine is strictly recommended. If 
the emigrant could afford to bring some bottles 
of wine and porter, he would be very glad to 
have them during his voyage. Eggs are recom- 
mended by some, but they soon get tainted; if 
tliey be brought, to pack them in salt is the 
better way for preserving them for a few weeks, 
A tin or metal pot for cooking, tin cups, and 
tea-pot of the same, are the best, as a storm 
may spring up, and earthen or china ware 
would have a poor chance of remaining safe. 
On arrival in port, emigrants should be active 
and procure lodgings before they bring their 
luggage on shore. 

It is worthy of remark, that when examining 
the passengers, the officers of the American 
government never require a female to open her 
trunk. When it is told that such an article 
belongs to a lady, they are satisfied. In Europe, 
on such occasions, particularly in France or 
England, the most rigid searches are made, 
without regard to persons or sex. 

In preparing for emigration, a sufficiency of 
dress for at least a year, ought to be provided. 
Every article is dearer in the United States than 
in this country, which is, in a great measure, 
owing to the high prices paid to mechanics. — 
Tlie women are the generel makers of panta- 
loons and waistcoats. Five dollars are paid for 



58 

making a coat in Baltimore, which is equal to 
£1 Is. 3d.; 2 for pantaloons — 8s. 6d. ; IJ for 
a vest — 6s. 4)ld, British currency. Hats are 
much better and cheaper than in Ireland, which 
arises from the great trade in peltry and furs 
carried on between the Americans and the 
Indians ; therefore the raw material, it may be 
said, is obtained at home by the hatters in 
America. 

In purchasing dress, the climate of America 
must be considered. The summers are warmer, 
and the winter (though it lasts in those States 
which are recommended to emigrants, not 
longer than about six weeks,) is colder than in 
Ireland. However, in contrasting both coun- 
tries, as to climate, that of the United States is 
the preferable one. The almost incessant rain 
which falls in this country, would render it in- 
tolerable to an American. In the summer, 
white pantaloons are generally worn ; many 
wear black silk, or camlet, and short jackets to 
correspond — this is for week days ; body coats 
of fine black cloth are the general dress on 
Sundays. Fine straw hats are worn by men 
throughout the summer. 

Tlie customs observed by the citizens of the 
United States at their meals, deserve some no- 
tice. Tlieir hours for breakfast ar«, in summer, 
seven o'clock ; for dinner, two o'clock ; and for 
supper, seven in the evening. In winter they 



59 

breakfast at eight, but no change at the other 
meals, Tlie appearance of the breakfast, din- 
ner, and supper tables, is invariably the same : 
viz., loaded with the best things. Ham, fowl, 
(roast and in pies,) roast beef, sausages, beef- 
steaks, &c. ; vegetables in the season ; honey, 
fruits of every kind, melons, tea and coffee at 
breakfast and supper, are placed in profusion 
before the guests. Sweet potatoes, and corn 
bread* brought to table in a hot state, are the 
chief substitutes for potatoes in that countrv. 
The Americans are but indifferent potatoe far- 
mers ; and the little which they do raise, are 
always bad, particularly in the western States. 
This may be attributed to the manner in which 
the potatoe crops are got into ground, without 
manure, and with little culture. The quality 
of the soil would be, in all appearance, favour- 
able for the potatoe, if well managed. 

The Americans surprise every stranger by 
their quickness in eating : they will have done, 
and be off from table, while an Irishman (as 
the common sajdng is) will be looking about 
him. There is no ceremony observed, in wait- 
ing for their fellow guests — they are off to an 
adjoining apartment, and smoke their cigars, &c. 
It is quite an unusual thing to call for any 

* Corn bread, in America, signifies only the maize, or 
Indian meal. Wheat, barley, oats, are not included under 
the name of corn. 



60 

drink, wiiile at dinner ; the custom isj to take 
a draught at a sideboard, before they begin, and 
for atty gentleman, after dining, to go when he 
wishes and take a glass, as before. 

No people in the world enjoy themselves more 
gaily during winter than the Americans. Par- 
ties are continually taking place, and the neigh- 
bouring farmers visit each other even without 
being invited. To go into a planter's house in 
Kentucky, is the same as to be at home when 
dinner, breakfast, or supper, is going forward. 
-All sit down without ceremony, partaking of 
the best of cheer, and a truly hospitable recep- 
tion. Sleighing is a general amusement, while 
the frost and snow are on the ground. The 
machine is so neatly constructed, that travelling 
in one of them is exceedingly amusing and 
comfortable. At other seasons, it is not unu- 
sual for a young lady, accompanied by a brother 
or a friend, to ride fifty miles, or more, to see 
her relatives, or others ; so that in the interior 
of America, in the west, as well as in the east 
and south, the citizens of the United StJites 
pass their time in agreeable variety and amuse- 
iTient. 

The United States of America extend from 
about the 25th to the 49th degree of north lati- 
tude, and from the 67th to the 123rd degree of 
west longitude from London. They are bounded 
on the north by the lakes Superior, St. Claire, 



61 

Huron, Eric, Ontario, and the river St. Lau- 
rence, wliicli separate tiiem from tlie Canadas. 
on the south, by the Gulf of Mexico, tlie pro- 
vince of Texas, and New Mexico. On the 
east, by the Atlantic Ocean ; and on the west, 
by Texas, New Mexico, and the Pacific Ocean. 

The New England, usually called Yankee* 
States, are Massachusetts, New Hampshire, 
Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and 
Maine. They are bounded, north, by Canada ; 
east, by Novo Scotia and the Atlantic Ocean ; 
south, by the Atlantic, and Long Island sound; 
west, by the State of New York. New England 
is a high, hilly, and in some parts a mountain- 
ous country. It is the most populous part of 
the United States. It contains, at least one 
million of inhabitants; one-fifth of whom are 
said to be capable of bearing arms. The great 
body of the people are land-holders and culti- 
vators of the soil. The youth are early taught 
the use of arms, and are said to make excellent 
soldiers. New England is termed, by the Ame- 
ricans, a nursery of men. 

The chief city of the six New England States 
is Boston, in Massachusetts. It carries on a 
very considerable foreign commerce, besides a 



* The word Yankee is disagreeable to the ear of an 
American, therefore it should be cautiously applied by 
strangers. 

F 



62 

great coasting trade with the other States of 
the Union. The population is supposed to be 
40j000. The harbour is safe, and capable of 
containing 500 sliips, in a good depth of water. 
The entrance is so narrow, that two ships can- 
not enter it abreast. About three miles from 
the town is the castle, which is mounted with 
forty pieces of heavy artillery, besides a number 
of a smaller size, and commands the entrance. 

Cambridge, in which Harvard College is si- 
tuated, is four miles west of Boston, and con- 
tains a number of gentlemen's seats, which are 
neat, and well built. Tlie university consists of 
four elegant brick edifices, handsomely enclosed. 
The library, and philosophical apparatus, are 
spoken of in terms of praise by those who have 
visited this university. 

Salem, the next town of importance in Mas- 
sachusetts, stands fifteen miles north-east of 
Boston. Its merchants are principally con- 
cerned in the East India trade. 

The state of New Hampshire has but eighteen 
miles of sea coast, the soil of which is of a 
sandy kind : in the interior, it is good for grain, 
pasture, fruits, vegetables, &c. ; the parts not 
under culture, are covered with forests of pine, 
fir, cedar, oak, walnut, &c. All the materials 
necessary for ship building, are produced in the 
State of Niew Hampshire. 



63 

Its chief and only seaport town, is called 
Portsmouth, on the Piscataqua river : it is about 
two miles from the sea. The harbour is one of 
the finest on the continent, and has water suffi- 
ciently deep for vessels of any burden. It is 
so defended by the land against storms, that 
vessiels are safe in it in all weathers. 

Tlie State of Main was, till within the last 
eight or ten years, under the jurisdiction of the 
government of Massachusetts, and was called 
the territory of Main. It is the most north- 
easterly State of the Union. Portland is its 
chief seaport and town. The harbour is safe, 
and capacious. The exports from this State 
consist of lumber in pine boards, masts, and 
ship timber. 

The State of Vermont is bounded on the 
north by the Canadas, and separated from New 
Hampshire by the river Connecticut on the east; 
south, by Massachusetts ; and west, by New 
York. A chain of high mountains, running 
north and south, divides this State nearly in the 
centre. The natural growth of this mountain, 
is hemlock, a species of the fir tree, pine, spruce, 
and other ever-greens, which have given to this 
State the descriptive name of verd mons — green 
mountain. Tlie heavy growth of timber through- 
out Vermont, proves the strength and fertility 
of its soil. The only foreigners in this State 



64> 

are Scotch : tlie first settlers were from Massa- 
cliusetts and Connecticut. Bennington and 
Montpelier are its cliief towns. 

The State of Connecticut lies in the south- 
vrest part of the New England States. Its 
chief rivers are the Connecticut and Housota- 
nick: the course of the former is 300 miles, 
and falls into Long Island sound. New London 
is the best harbour in tliis State. The chief 
productions are Indian corn, rye, wheat, oats, 
and barley, which are heavy and good in many 
places ; also buck wheat, flax in large quanti- 
ties, hemp, potatoes of several kinds, pumpkins, 
turnips, peas, beans, fruits of all kinds common 
to the climate. The soil of Connecticut is well 
calculated for pasture and mowing, which en- 
able the farmers to feed large numbers of cattle 
and horses. The beef and pork, butter and 
cheese, of this state, are equal to any in the 
United States. 

The trade of Connecticut is introduced more 
minutely than that of Massachusetts, in order 
that emigrants who are not aware of the extent 
of commerce in the United States, may learn 
from this the general appearance of trade 
amongst them. 

The merchants of Connecticut export prin- 
cipally to the West India islands belonging to 
the French and Dutch, in vessels which gene- 
rally average from 60 to 140 tons. Their ex- 



65 

ports consist of horses, mules, oxen, oak staves, 
lioops, pine boards, oak plank, beans, Indian 
corn, fisli, beef, pork, &c. 

The people of tliis State carry on also an 
extensive coasting trade. To Rhode Island, 
Massachusetts, and New Hamphire, they carry 
pork, wheat, corn, and rye. To north and 
south Carolina, and Georgia, butter, cheese, 
salted beef, cyder, apples, potatoes, and hay, 
are sent ; and in return they receive rice, in- 
digo, and money. To New York are forwarded 
j>ot and pearl ashes, flax seed, and provisions of 
every kind, in large quantities. The produc- 
tions of Vermont, New Hampshire, and the 
western parts of Massachusetts, are floated 
down the river Connecticut, and contribute 
largely to the great coasting trade of this State. 

Connecticut is the most populous, in propor- 
tion to its extent, of any of the United States. 
It is laid out in small farms, of from fifty to 
three or four hundred acres each, which are 
held by the farmers in fee-simple. The whole 
State resembles a well-cultivated garden, whicli, 
with that degree of industry essential to hap- 
piness, produces all the necessaries and conve- 
niences of life, in great plenty. 

There ai'e a great number of very pleasant 
towns, both maritime and inland, in Connec- 
ticut. It contains five incorporated towns, or 

cities, viz., Hartford, New Haven, New London, 
f3 



Norwich, and Middlctown. Two of these, 
Hartford and New Haven, are the capitals of 
the State. The general assembly is held at the 
former in May, at the latter in October, annu- 
ally. Hartford is situated at the head of navi- 
gation, on the west side of Connecticut river, 
about fifty miles from its entrance into the 
sound ; it is advantageously situated for trade, 
has a fine back country, enters largely into the 
manufacturing business, and is both rich and 
commercial. 

New Haven lies round the head of a bay, 
which makes up about four miles north from 
the sound. It covers part of a large plain 
which is circumscribed on three sides by high 
hills, or mountains. Two small rivers bound 
the city east and west. The town was origi- 
nally laid out in squares of sixty rods. The 
public square is encircled with rows of trees, 
which render it both convenient and delightful. 
In salubrity of air, and situation. New Haven is 
not exceeded by any city in America. It car- 
ries on a considerable trade with New York and 
the West India islands. 

New London stands on the west side of the 
river Thames, near its entrance into the sound. 
Its harbour is the best in Connecticut. A con- 
siderable part of the town was burned by 
Benedict Arnold, in 1781, but has been since 
re-built. 



67 

Norwich stands at the head of Tliarnes river, 
twelve or fourteen miles north of New London. 
It is a great commercial town, has a rich and 
extensive back country, and avails itself of its 
natural advantages at the head of navigation. 
Its situation upon a river which affords a great 
number of convenient seats for mills, and water 
machines of all kinds, renders it very eligible 
in a commercial point of view. The inhabitants 
are not neglectful of the advantages which na- 
ture has so liberally given them. They manu- 
facture paper of all kinds, stockings, clocks and 
watches, chaises, buttons, stone and earthen 
ware, wire, oil, chocolate, bells, anchors, and all 
kinds of forge work. 

Middletown is pleasantly situated on the 
western bank of Connecticut river, fifteen 
miles south of Hartford. It carries on a large 
and increasing trade. 

Yale College, in New Haven, was founded in 
1700. The buildings are, Connecticut Hall, 
100 feet long, and 40 wide, with 32 convenient 
rooms, a chapel, library, museum, and dining 
hall, all built of brick. The college library has 
several thousand volumes. The philosophical 
apparatus consists of the principal machines 
necessary for the whole course of experimental 
philosophy. 

A celebrated writer and citizen of America 
makes the following strong allusions, as charac- 



teristic of their freedom in the United States. 
" The people who live under a free government, 
have no fear of a tyrant. There are no over- 
grown estates, with rich and ambitious land- 
lords, to have an undue and pernicious influence 
in the election of civil officers. Property is 
equally enough divided, and must continue to 
be so, as long as estates descend as they now 
do. No person is prohibited from voting, or 
from being elected into office, on account of his 
poverty. He who has the most merit, not he 
who has the most money, is generally chosen 
into public office. As instances of this, it is to 
be observed, that many of the citizens of Con- 
necticut, from the humble walks in life, have 
risen to the first offices in the state, and filled 
them with dignity and reputation. That base 
business of electioneering, which is so directly 
calculated to introduce Avicked and designing 
men into office, is yet but little known in Con- 
necticut. A man who wishes to be chosen into 
office, acts wisely for that end when he keeps 
his desires to himself." 

The State of Rhode Island is a noted resort 
for invalids from southern climates. Travellers 
say that it is noted for its fine women, and call 
it the Eden of America. It suffered greatly in 
the firt American war. Many of its finest 
country seats were destroyed ; their fine groves, 



69 

orcliarda, and fruit trees, wantonly cut down. 
The soil is of a superior quality. 

Providence and Taunton rivers both fall into 
Narraganset bay. The former is navigable so 
far as Providence, thirty miles from the sea ; 
the latter is navigable for small vessels to Taun- 
ton. The winters, in the maritime part of this 
State, are milder than in the inland parts. The 
summers are delightful, especially on Rhode 
Island, where the extreme heats which prevail 
in other parts of America, are allayed by cool 
and refreshing breezes from the sea. The 
western and northwestern parts of this State 
are but thinly inhabited, being barren and 
rocky. In that called the Narraganset country, 
the planters are chiefly graziers, and raise great 
numbers of the finest and largest cattle in 
America. They also keep large dairies, and 
make cheese and butter for exportation. Narra- 
ganset is famed for an excellent breed of pacing 
horses. They are strong, and remarkable for 
their speed, and for their being capable to en- 
dure the fatigues of a long journey. 

Newport and Providence are the principal 
towns in this State. The harbour of Newport 
is one of the finest in the world ; the entrance 
into it is safe and easy, and a large fleet can 
ride at anchor with perfect security. The fish 
market is also said to be the finest in the world. 



70 

Providence is situated on Providence river, 
about thirty miles north-west of Newport. It 
is represented as the most flourishing town in 
the State of Rhode Island ; it carries on a large 
foreign trade, and an extensive traffick with the 
surrounding country. 

In the first war with Great Britain, the troops 
of Rhode Island distinguished themselves par- 
ticularly for their patriotic spirit, and the second 
general in the field, viz., General Greene, was 
a native of that State. 

The State of New Jersey is washed on the 
east and south-east by Hudson's river and the 
ocean, and on the west by the river Delaware. 
One-fourth of this State is a sandy barren, 
unfit for cultivation. The land on the sea-coast 
in this and the more southern States, have every 
appearance of made ground. All the varieties 
of soil, from the best to the worst, are to be 
met with in this State. 

The markets of New York and Philadelphia, 
get a great portion of their supplies from the 
adjoining parts of New Jersey. The cider of 
this State is said to be the best in the world. 
The greatest source of wealth to its inhabitants, 
are its iron mines ; in one county alone there 
are seven of them, which would be equal to 
supply the whole of the United States. 

There are two colleges in this State, one at 



71 

Princeton, called Nassau Hall. The other, at 
Brunswick, called Queen's College. The edu- 
cation of the lower classes is neglected. 

Trenton is the largest town in New Jersey, 
and the seat of government. Burlington and 
Perth Amboy, denominated cities, are also im- 
portant places in this State. Princeton is said 
to be a healthy pleasant village. 

The following lines are from the pen of an 
American writer : — 

" New Jersey was, for a long time, the seat 
of the revolutionary war between America and 
Great Britain. When General Washington was 
retreating through the Jerseys, almost forsaken 
by all others, her militia were at all times obe- 
dient to his orders. There is hardly a town in 
the State, that lay in the progress of the British 
army, which was not rendered signal by some 
enterprise or exploit : at Trenton the enemy 
received a check, which may be said, with jus- 
tice, to have turned the tide of the war. At 
Princeton, the seat of the Muses, they received 
another, which, united, obliged them to retire 
with precipitation, and to take refuge in dis- 
graceful winter quarters. Tiie many military 
achievements performed by the Jersey soldiers, 
give this State one of the first ranks among her 
sisters, in a military view, and entitle her to a 
share of praise, to which her size bears no pro- 



72 

portion, in the accomplishment of the late glo- 
rious revolution." 

The State of Delaware is one of the smallest 
in the Union. Its rivers are Chopt;ink, Nan- 
ticok, and Pocomoke ; they are navigable into 
the country about twenty or thirty miles, for 
vessels of fifty or sixty tons, and running west- 
wardly fall into the Chesapeak bay. 

The south part of this State is a low flat 
country, and a considerable portion of it lies 
in forest. What is under cultivation is chiefly 
barren, except in Indian corn, of which it pro- 
duces fine crops. Where nature is deficient in 
one resource, she is generally bountiful in ano- 
ther. This is verified in the tall thick forests of 
pines, which are manufactured into boards, and 
exported in large quantities into every seaport 
in the three adjoining States. In the northern 
parts the soil is more fertile, and produces 
wheat in large quantities, which is the staple 
commodity of Delaware. All the other kinds 
of grain common to Pensylvania, are raised 
in it. 

Dover is the chief town, and seat of govern- 
ment. It has a lively appearance, and drives 
on a considerable trade with Pensylvania. The 
landing is five or six miles from the town of 
Daver. The other towns are, Newcastle, on the 
Delaware river, thirty-five miles below Phila- 



73 

delpbia ; it was formerly the seat of government, 
but has at present an appearance of decay. — 
Wilmington is situated one mile and a half 
west of Delaware river, on Christiana Creek, 
twenty- eight miles south of Philadelphia. This 
town is handsomely built on a gentle ascent, 
and shows to great advantage as you sail up the 
Delaware. There is a flourishing academy here. 
The State of Maryland is bounded, north, by 
Pensylvania ; east, by the Delaware State ; 
south-east and south, by the Atlantic Ocean ; 
south, south-west, and west, by the State of 
Virginia. The climate is generally mild and 
agreeable, suited to agricultural productions, 
and a great variety of fruit trees. In the in- 
terior hilly country, the inhabitants are healthy, 
but in the flat country in the neighbourhood of 
marshes and stagnant waters, they are, as in 
the southern states, subject to fever and ague. 
The character of the eastern shore, as to health- 
fulness, &c., has already been introduced. 

The Chesapeak Bay divides this State into 
the eastern and western divisions : it receives a 
number of the largest rivers in the United 
States. On the east, the Pokomoke, Choptank, 
Chester, and Elk rivers flow into it. From the 
north, the rapid Susquehannah ; from the west, 
Patapsco, Severn, Patuxent, and Patcmak, half 
of which is in Maryland and half in Virginia. 



74 

All these rivers are small, except the Susque- 
hannah and Patomak. 

Annapolis, thirty miles south of Baltimore, 
is the seat of the government of Maryland : it 
is situated at the mouth of Severn river, and is 
said to be the richest town in America. 

The exports of this state are principally 
shipped from Baltimore, situate on Patapsco 
river, and one of the neatest and most enterpris- 
ing cities in the Union ; its population is at least 
80,000. Having already given some particulars 
of this flourishing place and its inhabitants, our 
limits oblige us to hasten to another State; re- 
commending anxiously, at the same time, to the 
emigrant to seek, on his arrival at Liverpool, or ' 
at any other seaport, a vessel bound for Balti- 
more, in preference to any other port in the 
United States, because from here he will be 
able to bend his course either for the Ohio, 
Indiana, Tennessee, Illinois, or the Messouri, 
&c., dropping in by the United States road to 
Wheeling, forty miles below Pittsburg, or he 
can shape his course through Maryland, for 
the State of Pensylvania, as conveniently from 
Baltimore as from Philadelphia. 

If a ship cannot be got immediately for either 
of these two ports, let not the emigrant be stop- 
ping at Liverpool, or any other seaport, for a 
promised ship; neither let him listen to any 



75 

broker, or fellow imposing his advice. No man 
can be deceived in what he sees. If the ship be 
about to sail, the berths, will be ready to receive 
the passengers ; therefore let them go on board, 
and their luggage, paying only a portion of the 
passage-money. Let them strive to lower the 
fare that will be asked. 

New York is, under the above events occur- 
ring, the third seaport to be calculated upon. 
This State, as has been already observed, is not 
so desirable for farmers, labourers, servants, 
(male or female,) as the two above named. — 
Mechanics also have a right to look to the west- 
ern states, but not to lose the opportunity of 
taking ship for New York, if it be the first that 
will arise at Liverpool, or elsewhere. Good 
tradesmen are always in demand. What should 
prevent an able-bodied mechanic to assist in 
reaping the harvest, if no other employment 
starts up on his arrival? 

An American vessel is the preferable one to 
go with : they give better accommodation, and 
their ships are considered the best sailers. The 
character of the vessel should be likewise con- 
sidered — it is dangerous to go by an old one — 
there have been instances of old vessels going 
to pieces in a storm. Give me a good new 
ship, copper-bottomed, and let it blow hurri- 



76 

canes, tlie whole passage, except near to land 
or rocks, and I would not fear the result. 

The expences to be incurred by journeying to 
the west, by the routes already touched upon, 
should not discourage any stout man to get 
through the whole distance, from one hundred 
to a thousand miles, without a pound. Let every 
emigrant be determined to brave every inci- 
dental difficulty, and when once in the United 
States, provided he goes in the last days of 
April, or during the first days of May, he must 
eventually succeed. He an-ives among a gener- 
ous people when he gets to the United States : 
they have a feeling for the stranger : they have 
means to employ every man who is inclined to 
work, and not to be a burden to their country. 
But let the idler, and the drunkard, stay at 
home. These, no doubt, could meet similar 
characters in the United States, but they would 
be few, and without patronage or money. 

This little digression from the main subject 
(viz., the description of the remaining states) is 
a matter of so much importance to the man 
leaving his country for ever, that it cannot be too 
often repeated, and will convince the emigrant, 
who goes to where the advantages are so supe- 
rior to any thing that can arise at home, under 
the present aspect of the world, that he should 



77 

use all energy and steady perseverance to ac- 
complish his object. 

Tlie state of Pensylvania, is bounded on the 
north by the state of New York ; on the south by 
Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia ; on the east 
by Delaware river; on the west by Virginia, 
Ohio, and lake Erie. 

There are six considerable rivers in this state, 
viz. the Delaware, Schuilkill, Susquehannah, 
Yohogany, Monongahela, and Alleghany ; from 
the ocean to the city of Philadelphia, there is 
sufficient depth of water for a seventy-four gun 
ship. At Trenton thirty-five miles above this, 
is the head of sloop navigation ; but for boats 
carrying eight or nine tons, the Delaware is 
navigable for fifty miles further 

There is an university in Philadelphia, and a 
medical school which has attained great cele- 
brity, attached to it. At Lancaster also is 
Franklin's College, so called after Dr. Franklin. 
This institution is principally for the Germans, 
who have secured ample funds for its support. 

By the Constitution of Pensylvania, estab- 
lished in 1776, all legislative power is lodged in 
a single body of men, styled " The general 
assembly of representatives of the freemen of 
Pensylvania." The qualification required to 
render a person eligible to this assembly, is, two 
g3 



78 

years residence in the city or county for which 
he is chosen. The qualifications of the electors 
are, " full age and one years residence in the 
state, with payment of public taxes for that time. 
But the sons of freeholders are entitled to vote 
for representatives, without any qualification 
except full age. No man can be elected as a 
member of the assembly, more than four years 
in seven. 

The representatives are chosen annually, on 
the second Tuesday in October, and they meet 
on the fourth Monday of the same month. 

The supreme executive power, is lodged in a 
president and a council, consisting of a member 
from each county. The president is elected 
annually, by the joint ballot of the assembly and 
council. A vice president is chosen at the same 
time. 

Tlie counsellors are chosen by the freemen, 
every third year, and having served three years, 
they are ineligible for the four succeeding years. 
The appointments of one third only of the mem- 
bers, expire every year, by which rotation no 
more than one third can be new members. 

The state of Virginia is bounded on the north, 
by Pensylvania, Maryland, and Ohio ; south by 
North Carolina ; east by the Atlantic ocean ; and 
west by Kentucky. 

This state is together with the Carolinas and 



79 

Georgia, the least inviting for emigrants to reside 
in. Slavery prevails here in its fullest sense, 
being overspread with slave owners and their 
plantations. Tobacco is the staple commodity 
of Virginia. 

Richmond containing about 15,000 inhabi- 
tants, is the seat of government. It is situated 
on the north side of James river. 

Norfolk is the second town of importance in 
this state; it stands also upon James river. 

Petersburg next in note stands on the south 
side of Appamattox river ; it is considered very 
unhealthy to reside in it. Considerable quan- 
tities of tobacco are shipped in this place, every 
year. 

Williamsburg, 60 miles to the east of Rich- 
mond, stands on two creeks, one of which falls 
into James river, the other into York river, and 
is not so thriving a place, as the above towns. 

Yorktown, thirteen miles eastward from Wil- 
liamsburg, is situate on the south side of York 
river. It was rendered famous by the capture 
of Lord Cornwallis and his army, on the nine- 
teenth of October 1781, by the united forces of 
France and America. 

The education of the planters children 
throughout Virginia, may be considered to be res- 
pectably attended to. The more wealthy among 
them, employ private tutors, and in several 



80 

places have established academies superintended 
by able professors from the eastern colleges of 
New England. The planters being in general 
very wealthy, are inclined to pay respectable 
salaries (as has been already noticed,) to gentle- 
men of good literary acquirements. To land in^ 
Richmond, would be a fair prospect for a young 
man possessing the necessary qualifications for 
a teacher; if he would not meet immediate 
employment in that city, he might be sure of 
succeeding among some of the rich planters of 
this state. The respectable Virginians are 
spoken of by the Americans, to be extremely 
hospitable and very genuine in their dealings. 

The district of Columbia composes a small 
tract of territory, ten miles square, ceded to 
Congress by the states of Virginia and Maryland; 
here stands the city of Washington, and seat of the 
United States Government. The river Patomak 
which is navigable for the largest ships to Alex- 
andria, adds the first importance to what may 
be termed the capital of the United States. 
Georgetown which might be called a continua- 
tion of Washington, is situated upon the same 
river : the college here, is celebrated among the 
literary institutions of America; it belongs to 
the Jesuits. 

Alexandria situate on the south side of the 
Patomak, possesses a large trade in provisions, 



81 

floar, and tobacco; it stands within six miles of 
the city of Washington. A canal to connect 
the Patomak with the Ohio, is progressing 
rapidly. 

The state of Kentucky is bounded, north and 
west, by the river Ohio, which separates it 
from the states of Indiana and Ohio, south by 
the state of Tennessee, and east by Virginia. 
Frankfort on the Kentucky river, is the seat of 
Government. Some of the principal towns of 
this state, and their literary establishments, have 
been already introduced. 

Tobacco is raised extensively throughout 
Kentucky, and the culture of wheat, hemp, flax, 
barley, and Indian corn, is followed up by the 
planters, who arc also largely concerned in the 
distillation of whiskey. From the facility of feed- 
ing swine, in their extensive woods, with what is 
called the mast^ which signifies the nuts of the 
beech and other trees, the planters are enabled 
to export quantities of bacon and ham, to New 
Orleans and the West India markets. These 
are as good in flavour and quality, as any made 
in Ireland. What renders the meat so good, is, 
the planters feed their hogs with Indian corn, for 
a few weeks previous to their being slaughtered. 
The whole state of Kentucky, appears to a 
traveller, to be an interminable wood of trees of 
astonishing height, thickness, and beauty. 



The planters are in the habit of making their 
own sugar from the maple tree. It is said that 
IjOOOlbs. are the usual quantity produced from 
250 trees. To describe the process of extracting 
this valuable article of home consumption, is not 
necessary in this place, as it will be a matter 
easily learned from the planters, by the new 
settler. 

The climate of Kentucky is delightful and 
healthy, except in the neighbourhood of ponds 
or low grounds. The city of Louisville was 
during the fall, proverbially sickly, for many 
years, but is at present as healthy, as any town 
in the state. As a proof of this, the growth of 
that place, is within the last six or seven years, 
almost incredible. It has been deservedly called 
from the gi'eat commerce prevailing with all the 
neighbouring states and New Orleans, the New 
York of the West. 

Here the merchant who goes to the western 
states, seeking to locate himself for the purposes 
of trading, would act wisely to stop, and see if 
Louisville would not suit his calculations. The 
expenses of boarding in this city are moderate. 
The markets are so abundantly supplied, and 
price of provisions so low, that it is possible to 
get into a respectable boarding house, for 2i 
dollars per week, 10s. 8d. British. 

There are many commission merchants estab- 



83 

lished in Louisville, to whom large consignments 
of merchandise are forwarded from the eastern 
cities. The usual mode to dispose of goods, is, 
to sell by public auction. The purchaser some- 
times bids so low as I of a cent, viz. half a 
farthing, in competing with the man who bids 
against him. The Americans are so knowing on 
these occasions, that it would require experience 
to meet them in their modes of buying and 
selling. The profits that a Kentucky merchant 
would hope to derive from mercantile specula- 
tions, are immoderately great, sometimes 50, 
sometimes 100 per cent. It cannot therefore 
create surprise, when it is asserted, that many 
merchants of Louisville, have built in the 
vicinity of that city, houses fit for nobleman to 
reside in. 

Except to those intent upon trade, or to me- 
chanics, Louisville is not recommended to other 
classes of emigrants. If farmers and labourer? 
pass the state of Ohio, then it is a matter of 
prudence, to turn to the state of Indiana, which 
is not many miles distant from Cincinnati, which 
stands in the south west part of the state of 
Ohio. In Louisville which is opposite to the 
Indiana shore, it would be possible to obtain 
every information concerning that state, and 
find the exact route that is to be taken to 
Indianopolis, the seat of the government of 



84 

Indiana. This being a free state as well as 
Ohio, emigrants can more securely undertake to 
purchase in it, than in Kentucky, (of which we 
have already spoken,) Clarksville, and Jeffer- 
son vi lie, two neat towns on the Indiana side, can 
be viewed from Louisville. 

As a matter appertaining to commerce, it must 
be mentioned here, that a canal has been very 
lately made from the river Ohio above the falls,* 
which connects again with the river at Shipping 
port, a mile and a half below Louisville* This 
has been of the first importance to that flourish- 
ing place, and the health of the citizens. Many 
marshes that were in the immediate neighbour- 
hood became drained by it, and no inconsiderable 
portion of land brought into cultivation. 

The society to be met with in Louisville is of 
such a grade, as that any stranger coming 
amongst them, must feel surprised to witness so 
much elegance and urbanity, at a distance of 
950 miles from any of the eastern cities. The 
wealthy portion of the inhabitants, enjoy them- 
i^elves with all the splendour which wealth and 
respectability can impart. All the independant 
planters within several miles of Louisville, are 
to be seen driving in with their families and 

* The falls are a ledg-e of rocks quite across the rivee 
and hitherto obstructing the navigation of the Ohio 
durins the summer mouths. 



85 

carriages almost daily, as if to enjoy the festive 
and social intercourse of its citizens. 

Vincennes a considerable town though not 
the capital of Indiana, is situated on the Wabasli 
river. If the emigrant seeking to purchase land 
pass Ohio and Indiana, he should touch at 
Vincennes which would be in the direction pf 
Illinois. 

Indiana is bounded on the north by the 
Michigan territory; on the south by the Ohio 
which separates it from Kentucky ; on the east 
by the state of Ohio ; and west by Illinois. 

The state of Ohio is bounded on the north by 
the territory of Michigan and lake Erie ; on the 
south by the river Ohio which separates it from 
Virginia and Kentucky; on the east by Vir- 
ginia ; and on the west by the state of Indiana. 

Columbus, in the interior, is the seat of govern- 
ment. Cincinnati is, beyond all comparison, 
the handsomest city in America, 500 miles 
below Pittsburg and 200 above Louisville; this 
is a kind of of central point for the commerce, 
of all the adjoining states ; opposite to Cincin- 
nati, some of the richest lands of Kentucky are 
to be seen, and the flourishing town of Newport. 
Not many miles from it a company of Swiss 
have raised a vineyard where wine of excellent 
flavour and quality is made ; the \^ine is an indi- 
genous production of the:se two states, 
u 



86 

The state of Ohio, it cannot be superfluous to 
repeat it, merits all the regard due by emigrants 
to the most inviting portion of the United States. 
The character of its inhabitants is equally hos- 
pitable, kind, and polite to strangers, as that of 
the Kentucky planters. At Portsmouth a canal 
connecting the waters of the Ohio with lake 
Erie, has been carried into completion. This as 
well as the canal in the state of New York, 
which connects the Hudson with lake Erie also, 
is a work of truly national importance. It fills 
the mind of an European with surprise, to 
behold the citizens of the United States carry 
works of such magnitude into effect, in the short 
space of some ten or twelve years. A rail road 
is at present carrying on in the state of Illinois, 
which will establish a quick and commercial 
communication between lake Michigan, and the 
Illinois river, which flows into the Mississippi. 

The towns of Steubenville, where there is an 
extensive cloth manufactory, Portsmouth, Alex- 
andria, Marietta, Galliopolis, and several neat 
villages are on the banks of the Ohio. Chilicothe, 
is also a town of importance in the interior. At 
Mayesville called also Limestone which is the 
first town of note with a brisk trade, that is met 
with in Kentucky, when sailing down the river, 
the emigrant ought to spend a day and make 
enquiries, in what part of Ohio, the best situa- 



87 

lions for agriculturists, could be looked for. 
From Mayesville also, the traveller may pass 
through the centre of Kentucky ; a mechanic 
may meet many opportunities for employment, 
when he arrives at Lexington and other inter- 
vening towns, if he pass through the middle 
parts of that state. Danville is a considerable 
town. Some of the richest lands are to be seen 
there, at Lexington and Frankfort. The finest 
oxen in the western states are in these parts of 
Kentucky, and are purchased by drovers for 
the eastern market. 

As an encouragement to mechanics and la- 
bourers wishing to proceed to the western states, 
they should not forget what has been already 
communicated, that there is a possibility of 
proceeding from Pittsburg or Wheeling, without 
any expense to them. There is always, while 
the waters of the Ohio are sufficiently deep for 
steam boats to proceed to Pittsburg, a want for 
hands to take in fire wood, &c. as they sail along. 
A free passage and diet are given gratis for 
assisting on these occasions. Family boats 
and barks built flat and spacious enough to 
contain some cows, horses &c. on their deck, 
afford similar opportunities, for assisting to 
row, &c. &c. to the emigrant proceeding to the 
western states. Every emigrant upon his ar- 
rival at Pittsburg, if he possess the means, 



8S 

should buy some implements of husbandry, if 
the purchase of land be his object ; a chest of 
tools will be likewise necessary. 

The Muskingum, Sioto, and great Miami, arc 
considerable rivers in the State of Ohio, and 
fall into the river of the same name. The 
Wabash and White rivers flow through the 
State of Indiana, and fall into the Ohio. Kas- 
kaskias and illinois fall into the Mississippi, 
passing through the State of Illinois. 

North Carolina is bounded by Virginia on the 
north ; east, by the Atlantic Ocean ; south, by 
South Carolina and Georgia ; west, by the State 
of Tennessee. 

Cape Fear River opens into the sea at Cape 
Fear, and affords the best navigation in iNortli 
Carolina. 

Pamlico Sound is from ten to twenty miles 
broad, and one hundred in length ; it is sepa- 
rated in its whole length from the sea, by a 
beach of sand, hardly a mile broad. 

Cape Hatteras, in latitude 35® 15', is to be 
dreaded by mariners with large vessels. If they 
come within twenty miles of the cape, it is too 
shallow for them in some places; if they stand 
farther off, they are in danger of falling into 
the gulf stream, which would set them north- 
ward three or four miles an hour. It is to be 



89 

observed, that violent storms of rain, and gusts 
of wind, are very frequent around this cape. 

Cape Fear is remarkable for a dangerous 
shoal, called, from its form, the Frying-pan, 

Dismal Swamp, spreads over the whole tract 
of country which lies between Pamlico and 
Albemarle sounds, and needs no other descrip- 
tion tlian is conveyed by its name. 

The principal towns of this State are, New- 
bern, Edenton, Wilmington, ^Hallifax, Hills- 
borough, and Fayetteville. 

Wheat, rye, barley, oats, and flax, grow well 
in the back hilly country. Cotton is largely 
cultivated ; it is planted yearly ; the stalk dies 
with the frost. The southern interior counties 
carry their produce to Charleston, and the nor- 
thern to Petersburgh, in Virginia. The exports 
from the lower parts of the State are, tar, pitch, 
turpentine, rosin, Indian corn, lumber, furs, 
tobacco, pork, &c. Their trade is principally 
with the West Indies, and the northern states. 

The form of their government is liberally 
constituted. All legislative authority is vested 
in two distinct branches, both dependent on the 
people, viz., a senate, and house of commons, 
which, when convened for business, are styled, 
the General Assembly, 

The senate is composed of representatives, 

one for each county, chosen annually by ballot. 
h3 



90 

The house of commons consists of representa- 
tives chosen in the same way, two fOr each 
county, and one for each of the towns. 

The senate and house of commons, when 
convened, jointly, by ballot, at their first meet- 
ing after each annual election, choose a governor 
for one year, who is not eligible to that office 
longer than three years in six successive years. 
He must possess freehold property of £1000 a 
year, and have resided in the state for five years. 
They, in the same manner, elect seven persons 
more, as a council of state for one year, to ad- 
vise the governor in the execution of his office. 

The constitution allows of no religious dis- 
tinction. 

South Carolina is bounded, east, by the At- 
lantic Ocean ; north, by North Carolina ; south- 
west and south, by Savannah river, which divides 
it from Georgia. 

The sea coast is bordered with a chain of fine 
sea islands, around which the sea flows, opening 
an inland navigation, which affords the oppor- 
tunity of sending their produce to market. — 
These islands are, in general, favourable for the 
culture of indigo. 

Charleston is the only city in this state. It 
is situated on a tongue of land, formed by the 
confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers, 
which are large and navigable. The harbour 



91 

communicates with the ocean at Sullivan's Is- 
land, seven miles south-east of the city. Char- 
leston is more healthy than any part of the low 
country in the southern states. On this account 
it is a great resort for gentlemen planters of the 
interior country, and for invalids from the West 
Indies, who come hither to spend the sickly 
months during the fall. Their neighhours of 
Kentucky speak in terms of praise of the in- 
habitants of Charleston. In this city our truly 
estimable countryman and divine, the Right 
Rev. Doctor England, resides : he is bishop of 
North and South Carolina, Georgia, and the 
Floridas. There are many different religious 
sects in this city, whose houses of worship are 
well built, and respectably maintained. A state 
house, an exchange, and armoury, are noticed 
among the public buildings of Charleston. This 
city is said to be about the same size, popula- 
tion, and commercial importance as Boston, 
state of Massachusetts. 

During the vigorous contest for independence, 
South Corolina was a great sufferer ; for three 
years it was the seat of war. 

Rice and indigo are extensively cultivated : 
the former constitutes the staple commodity of 
the state. Cotton, tobacco, and silk, are also 
numbered among its valuable productions. — 
Slavery is the same here as in Kentucky. 



92 

The state of Georgia is bounded, east, by the 
Atlantic Ocean ;] south, by East and West Flo- 
rida, and comprising the Allabamas, on the 
west, by the Mississippi river ; north and north- 
east, by the Carolinas. 

Its chief town, Augusta, is situated on the 
south-west bank of Savannah river, 134 miles 
from the sea. Savannah is another town of 
importance on the same river, and within 17 
miles of the sea. Sunbury is a seaport town, 
with a safe and convenient harbour; it was 
burnt by the British, during the war for Ame- 
rican independence. The rivers in the western 
parts of this state flow southwardly, and fall 
into the Gulf of Mexico. 

Rice, tobacco, indigo, sago, naval stores, lea- 
ther, deer-skins, snake root, myrtle, bees' wax, 
corn, live stock, are the principal exports from 
the state of Georgia. 

Some tribes of Indians, and the most numer- 
ous that are settled in the United States, inhabit 
some parts of the state of Georgia. They are 
known by the names of the Muskogee, Semi- 
nolas, Chactaw, and Chicasaw Indians. 

During the first war with Britain, Georgia 
was over-run by the English troops, and the in- 
habitants obliged to fly for safety into the neigh- 
bouring states. The sufferings and losses of her 
citizens were as great, in proportion to their 



93 

numbers and wealth, as in any of the states. 
Since the peace, tlie progress of tlie population 
of this state has been astonishingly rapid. 

The state of Tennessee is bounded, on the 
north, by Kentucky ; on the south, by the states 
of Georgia and South Carolina ; east, by North 
Carolina; and west, by the Mississippi river, 
which separates it from the Arkansa territory. 
Nashville is its chief town, and seat of govern- 
ment. 

The planters of Tennessee cultivate and ex- 
port cotton extensively. A considerable inland 
trade prevails between Nashville and Louisville, 
Kentucky. 

East and West Florida, lately ceded by Spain 
to the United States of America, are bounded 
on the north by Georgia ; south, by the Gulf 
of Mexico ; east, by the Atlantic Ocean ; and 
west, by the Mississippi. The Floridas lie in 
the form of an L. In climate, they do not differ 
materially from that of Georgia. 

In the southern parts of Florida, two crops 
of Indian corn are produced annually. The 
fruits and vegetables common to Georgia and 
the Carolinas, are common to the Floridas. 

St. Augustine, the capital of East Florida, is 
situated on the sea coast. Pensacola is the 
capital of West Florida. The bay on which the 



94 

town stands, forms a veiy commodious harbour, 
and vessels may ride secure from every wind. 

Louisiana is bounded on the east by the Mis- 
sissippi ; on the south, by the Gulf of Mexico ; 
on the west, by New Mexico ; and runs indefi- 
nitely north. Many fine rivers flow through 
Louisiana into the Gulf of Mexico. 

New Orleans, north latitude 30^ 2', is the 
capital : it stands on the east side of the Missis- 
sippi, and 105 miles from its entrance into the 
Gulf of Mexico. 

Situated in a fertile country, and on a noble 
river, and being within a few days sail of Mexico 
and the West Indies, New Orleans must be at 
all times the receptacle for the produce of those 
extensive and fertile states bordering upon the 
Mississippi and the Ohio, which will always se- 
cure to it its great commercial importance. 

This city was founded by Louis XIV. and 
was ceded, together with Louisiana, to the 
United States, during the late wars between 
France and England. In consequence of the 
bulk of the inhabitants of that city being of 
French descent, and speaking their native lan- 
guage, the laws are administered, partly by a 
French, and in part by an English tribunal. 
Any emigrant coming to reside at New Orleans, 
would be much benefited by having a good 
knowledge of the French language. 



95 

Many of the wealthy inhabitants leave this 
city during the fall of the year, and retire to 
Baton-rouge, a high and healthy situation on 
the Mississippi, not far from the city of Natches. 
The state of Illinois is bounded, north, by 
the north-western territory ; south, by the states 
of Kentucky and Missouri ; east, by Indiana ; 
and west, by the Mississippi river. 

The chief towns are Shaneentown, on the 
Ohio, and Vandalia, on the Illinois river. 

This state is considered to possess all the 
advantages of soil that can be desired by emi- 
grants.* 

The state of Missouri being the most westerly 
of all, will be the last, of course, which the 
emigrant will look to for a home. The oppor- 
tunities of employment will be fewer than in 
any of the preceding states, but the lands of 
Congress, surpass, in extent, any of the others. 
St. Louis, which stands on the Mississippi 
river, is the chief town of the Missouri state. 
Its growth in commerce and population have 
been rapid and considerable. 

The state of Mississippi, and the territory of 
Arkansas, lie east and west of the Mississippi 
river. New Orleans, the chief city of the south- 
west has been already introduced : its import- 

* Rail fencing cannot be so generally practised here a 
in the other states, timber being more scarce, in conse 
quence of its immense tracts of Prairies or meadows. 



96 

arice as a great trading city is well known to 
every citizen of the United States. 

The north-western territory lies to the w*st 
of Lake Michigan, and extends indefinitely to 
the Stony Mountains, which, some geographers 
say, are a continuation of the Andes in South 
America. 

The Mississippi river is supposed to be about 
3000 miles long, and is navigable to the falls of 
St. Anthony, in latitude 44^ 30'. 

The Michigan territory is bounded on 'the 
north by Lake Huron ; on the south by the 
States of Indiana and Ohio ; on the east by the 
Lakes St. Clare and Erie ; and on the west by 
Lake Michigan, which belongs exclusively to the 
United States and is 900 miles in circumference. 
Petroit is capital of this territory. 

In concluding our advice to emigrants pro- 
ceeding to the United States of America, it is 
most earnestly recommended to the industrious 
classes of our countrymen, to let no earthly con- 
sideration short of competency and a prospect of 
being able to uphold it, prevent them from emi- 
grating to that country, so great and powerful 
in her resources, so just in her views of the 
rights of men, and so intent on advancing the 
prosperity of her people. 

FINIS, 



CONTENTS. 



Page 

Advice to Emigrants, 5 

Caution to be used, 6 

The best States, - 7 
Title in Kentucky lands, 8 

Louisville, - - 8 

Ohio, - - - 8 

Baltimore, - - 8 

Planters in Ohio, - 8 

Cincinnati, - - 10 

Price of Lands, - 10 

Travelling," - - 11 

Coach drivers, - - 11 

Hotels, - - 11 

Mechanics, - - 13 

Farmers and labourers, 14 

Wages, - - - 14 

Diet to labourers, - 14 

Kentucky, education, 15 

River Ohio, - - 17 

Pensylvania towns, - 18 

Pittsburg, - - 18 

Religion, - - 20 

Cheapness of liquor, - 20 

Maryland, - - 21 

Baltimore & Cincinnati, 22 

Ladies and dress, - 23 

House rent, &c. - 24 

Education in Baltimore, 24 

The Cathedral, - 25 

The Dutch, - - 25 

Labourers dieted, - 26 

Season for emigrating, 26 

Seaports to sail from, 27 



Page 
Whom to consult, - 28 

Rt. Rev. Dr. Conwell 

and Rev. Mr. Hogan, 29 
Rates of market in Phi- 
ladelphia, - - 30 
Fire wood, - - 31 
Pensylvania, advantages, 32 
Great fire in Baltimore, 33 
Mode of building a log- 
house, - - - 35 
Clearing land, see - 36 
Price of lands, - 36 

Bishop of Cincinnati, 37 
Pittsburg, Chambers- 
burg, - - - 38 
Hospitality, - - 39 
Money fittest to be 

brought, - - 40 
Kentucky Money, - 40 
Yankee dealing, - 41 
Harbour, &c. &c. of New 

York, - - 41 42 
Ladies of New York, 43 
Mercantile knowledge, 43 
Rail roads, - - 44 
Public works, - - 44 
State of New York, 46 
Productions, - - 47 
Long Island, - - 47 
Labourers go to England, 49 
United States better than 

the Canadas, - 50 

Irish Teachers, - 5[ 



CONTENTS. 



Pa^e 
The salaries paid, - 52 
Emigrants having ample 

means, - - 53 

Society in America, 53 
The Tariff bill, - 54 

Mrs. Trollop, - - 54 
Various trades, - 55 
fiea store, - - 56 
Ladies well treated on 



landing, 



57 



Dress to be brought out, 57 
Bummers and Winters 

in America, - - 58 
American amusements, 60 
Latitude and Longitude 

of the United States, 60 
Boundaries, - - 61 
New England States, 6 1 
Boston and Cambridge 

College, - - 62 
The five New England 

States, 63, 64, 65, 66y 67, 
69, 70, 
New Jersey, - - 70 
New Yerk, &c. markets 

supplied, - - 70 
Character of the Jersey 

soldiers, - - 71 
State of Delaware, - 72 
State of Maryland, - 73 
Passage to Baltimore 

best, - - - 74 

Ditto to New York, 75 
American vessels best, 75 



Page 
Those who succeed best 

in America, - - 76 
Colleges, &c. in Pen- 

sylvania, - - 77 
Constitution, - - 78 
State of Virginia, ^. 79 
District of Columbia, 80 
Kentucky and produo- 

tions, - - - 81 
Trade of Louisville, - 8^ 
Indiana, - - - 83 
Canal at Louisville, - 84 
State of Ohio, - - 85 
Cincinnati and other 

towns, - - 80 

Towns of Kentucky, 87 
Opportunities to get a 
free passage on the 
Ohio, . - - 87 
North Carolina, - 88 
Productions and consti- 
tution, - - 89 
South Carolina, - 90 
Charleston, - - 9 1 
State of Georgia, - 92 
Tennessee, - - 93 
East and West Florida, 93 
Louisiana & N. Orleans, 9^ 
Illinois, Missouri, and St. 

Louis, - - - 95 

State of Mississippi, 95 

Mississippi river, &c. &c. 96 

^Michigan territory and 

concluding advice, 9n 



